LeBron James scored 32 points on 12-for-18 shooting in a record-setting show, Dwyane Wade scored 30 and the Heat beat the Lakers 107-97 yesterday in Miami for their fifth straight win.
It was James’ fifth straight game with at least 30 points, a franchise record. He also joined Adrian Dantley (1979) and Moses Malone (1982) as the only NBA players to score at least 30 and shoot at least 60 percent in five straight outings, the team said.
“Don’t take it for granted,’’ Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. “He’s making greatness look easy.’’
Kobe Bryant had 28 points and nine assists for the Lakers, who also got 18 points from Earl Clark.
“Turnovers,’’ lamented Lakers coach Mike D’Antoni. “You have to give them credit. They’re good.’’
Dwight Howard and Steve Nash each scored 15 for the Lakers.
Rapper Lil Wayne — a semi-regular in the crowd at Heat games — was there for the first half, then tweeted that he was ejected for rooting for the Lakers. Security personnel were seen talking to the rapper at halftime, and a Heat spokesman said after the game that he chose to leave on his own and was not ejected.
Celtics 118, Nuggets 114 (3 OT)
In Boston, Paul Pierce had 27 points, 14 rebounds and 14 assists as the Celts extended their winning streak to seven with a triple-overtime win that ended Denver’s win streak at nine.
Kings 117, Rockets 111
In Sacramento, Isaiah Thomas scored 17 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter for the Kings. James Harden had 30 points for Houston.
Thunder 97, Suns 69
In Phoenix, Kevin Durant scored 18, 11 points below his NBA-leading season average (29.1), in limited duty.
Grizzlies 105, Timberwolves 88
In Memphis, Tayshaun Prince had 18 points for the Grizzlies. Luke Ridnour had 17 points for Minnesota.
Raptors 102, Hornets 89
In Toronto, John Lucas scored 10 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter to match his season high for the Raptors.
Magic 110, Trail Blazers 104
In Orlando, J.J. Redick scored 22 points as the Magic snapped a 12-game losing streak.