Lebron James decided to play after missing Thursday’s game against the Seattle SuperSonics because of a right ankle sprain.
James tested the ankle before tipoff and decided to play about 45 minutes before the game.
“I knew I could go out there and give my best effort,” James said. “I’m not as strong as I want to be right now, but I knew I could play well. My ankle’s been better, but it didn’t get worse, and that’s a good thing.”
The Cavaliers played with only 11 active players and played only 7 because of injuries to Anderson Varejao (sprained left ankle) and Sasha Pavlovic (sprained left foot)
The Clippers played without forward Corey Maggette and center Chris Kaman, both missed the game with the flu.
Elton Brand is out for the season because of an Achilles’ tear.
Shaun Livingston, the Clippers point guard was out with a knee injury.
Zydrunas Ilgauskas picked up his 21st double-double with 22 points and 13 rebounds.
Drew Gooden had his 16th double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds.
Lebron led the Cavaliers with 28 points, 11 boards, and 8 assists.
The Cavaliers have won four straight and six of the last seven against the Clippers.
Local Media Coverage:
– LeBron’s return gets Cavs back on track (Akron Beacon Journal)
– LeBron James returns to lead Cleveland Cavaliers to NBA victory over Los Angeles Clippers (The Plain Dealer)
National Media Coverage:Â
– Clippers come up short again (Los Angeles Times)