CLEVELAND (AP) – LeBron James always takes pride in being efficient. His numbers Tuesday night were several steps beyond that.
James had 25 points and tied a career-high with 17 assists, as Cleveland defeated the Atlanta Hawks 123-114 – the Cavaliers’ 15th win in 16 games.
James, as he has done all season, turned in an almost error-free performance. He was 11 of 13 from the field, had seven rebounds and two turnovers. James was given a standing ovation when he was removed from the game with 2:34 remaining.
The four-time MVP set the tone for the entire team. The Cavaliers hit a season-high 20 3-pointers, including nine in the first quarter. Cleveland had a season-high 35 assists.
“For me to get assists means somebody’s making shots,” James said. “That’s always been an enjoyment of mine to be able to see my teammates reap the benefits of the pass that I try to put on time and on target.”