Finally, Some Help For LeBron

Hughes scores 40 in Orlando as Cavaliers get Gooden back
By Jesse Andrews,  Newser Staff
Posted Feb 11, 2008 10:15 PM CST
Finally, Some Help For LeBron
Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James, right, puts up a shot in front of Orlando Magic guard Maurice Evans during the first half of their NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Monday, Feb. 11, 2008. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)   (Associated Press)

A common scapegoat for Cleveland's occasionally mediocre play, gunner Larry Hughes made the case for his sizable contract, pouring in 40 in the Cavaliers' 118-111 win tonight over the Magic. Hughes's 23-point third quarter kept Cleveland close, and the team's 12-2 run in the first five minutes of the fourth cinched it.

Cleveland's defense rendered Magic superstar center Dwight Howard a non-factor with lots of help inside. LeBron James added his customary 29 points and 10 assists, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas and Damon Jones both contributed despite leaving the previous game—a rout against Denver—with injuries. Drew Gooden also returned to the Cavs after nursing a balky groin. (More NBA stories.)

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