In the News

Lakers' Brown: Kobe, Pau will get together
The Los Angeles Lakers are facing elimination and after their most recent loss Saturday, Kobe Bryant pegged the Lakers' late-game problems on Pau Gasol, but coach Mike Brown insists the team isn't coming apart.

Kobe Bryant, Mike Brown on Lakers' Game 3 victory
Watch as Kobe Bryant and Mike Brown talk about the Lakers' Game 3 victory.

Lakers back Brown after Magic's prediction (Yahoo! Sports)
LOS ANGELES (AP) The Lakers issued a statement publicly backing Mike Brown on Saturday after Magic Johnson declared the first-year head coach would be fired if Los Angeles lost Game 7 of its first-round playoff series with Denver.

Magic's criticism doesn't bother Lakers' Brown
Los Angeles Lakers head coach Mike Brown says criticism heaped on himy by Lakers legend and ESPN analyst Magic Johnson doesn't bother him.

Lakers back Brown after Magic's remark
The Lakers have issued a statement publicly backing Mike Brown after Magic Johnson declared the first-year head coach would be fired if Los Angeles lost Game 7 of its first-round playoff series with Denver.

Brown: 'Joke' to tank for return of World Peace
Mike Brown called extending the Lakers' series with Denver to get Metta World Peace back for the next round "a joke."

Lakers' Barnes (ankle) cleared to play Game 1
Matt Barnes, who missed the Lakers regular-season finale Thursday after suffering a moderately sprained right ankle last week against Oklahoma City, has been cleared to return to the lineup, Lakers coach Mike Brown said Saturday.

Kobe-less Lakers hold off Mavs in overtime 112-108 (Yahoo! Sports)

LOS ANGELES (AP) Andrew Bynum had 23 points and 16 rebounds, Pau Gasol made back-to-back 3-pointers in overtime, and the Los Angeles Lakers won their fourth straight game without Kobe Bryant, 112-108 over the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday.

Kobe's shin will sideline him against Mavericks
Lakers guard Kobe Bryant did not participate in Saturday's shootaround and according to head coach Mike Brown is "most likely to be out" of the lineup for Los Angeles on Sunday when it faces the Dallas Mavericks.

Barnes powers Lakers in clinching playoff berth
Andrew Bynum had 30 points and eight rebounds, Matt Barnes added a season-high 24 points, and the Los Angeles Lakers clinched a playoff berth without Kobe Bryant or coach Mike Brown, holding off the Denver Nuggets 103-97 on Friday night.

Lakers beat Nuggets minus Kobe, Brown
Andrew Bynum had 30 points and eight rebounds, Matt Barnes added a season-high 24 points, and the Los Angeles Lakers clinched a playoff berth without Kobe Bryant or coach Mike Brown, holding off the Denver Nuggets 103-97 Friday night.

Lakers hold off Nuggets, clinch playoff berth (Yahoo! Sports)

LOS ANGELES (AP) Andrew Bynum had 30 points and eight rebounds, Matt Barnes added a season-high 24 points, and the Los Angeles Lakers clinched a playoff berth without Kobe Bryant or coach Mike Brown, holding off the Denver Nuggets 103-97 Friday night.

Kobe will 'most likely' miss game vs. Mavericks
Lakers guard Kobe Bryant did not participate in Saturday's shootaround and according to head coach Mike Brown is "most likely to be out" of the lineup for Los Angeles on Sunday when it faces the Dallas Mavericks.

Lakers coach Mike Brown leaves before tipoff (Yahoo! Sports)
LOS ANGELES (AP) Lakers coach Mike Brown left Staples Center shortly before tipoff Friday night for undisclosed personal reasons.

Lakers coach Mike Brown leaves arena
Lakers coach Mike Brown has left Staples Center shortly before tipoff for undisclosed personal reasons.

Lakers' Bryant misses 3rd game with sore shin (Yahoo! Sports)
SAN ANTONIO (AP) Kobe Bryant is out for a third consecutive game because of a sore left shin, and Lakers coach Mike Brown says there is still no timetable for his return.

Kobe's shin improving, still out against Spurs
The condition of Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant's inflamed left shin continues to improve, but Bryant will sit out his third straight game Wednesday against the San Antonio Spurs, Lakers coach Mike Brown said.

Rockets beat Lakers again after Bynum is ejected (Yahoo! Sports)

Goran Dragic had 26 points and 11 assists, Luis Scola scored 10 of his 25 points during a 2:39 span of the fourth quarter, and the Houston Rockets capitalized on the ejection of Andrew Bynum to beat the Los Angeles Lakers 112-107 on Friday night. The Lakers were trailing 80-75 when Bynum took exception to a foul by Samuel Dalembert with 1:18 left in the third quarter and had to be restrained by...

Brown: Can't afford to limit Kobe's minutes
With the playoffs approaching and the Lakers still working out kinks and jockeying for position in the standings, Mike Brown doesn't have the luxury of limiting Kobe Bryant's minutes.

Lakers' Brown says he has no issue with Bynum
Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown said he has no problem with Lakers center Andrew Bynum on Thursday despite benching him for most of the second half on Tuesday.

Lakers' Brown stands by Bynum substitution
One night after sitting All-Star center Andrew Bynum for all but 5:23 of the second half in his team's 104-101 win over the Golden State Warriors Wednesday night, Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown has no plans to alter his decision making process.

Lakers' Brown stands by Kobe substitution
If Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown learned anything from Sunday's 102-96 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, it's that even a seemingly routine substitution involving Kobe Bryant can become a point of discussion for L.A. sports fans.

Frustrated Kobe gets benched late against Griz
Kobe Bryant voiced frustration and said he was unhappy when Lakers coach Mike Brown benched him briefly in a 102-96 loss Sunday to the Grizzlies.

Brown: Sessions to start since comfort is there
Ramon Sessions was the Los Angeles Lakers' starting point guard Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Brown: Sessions to start since comfort is there
Ramon Sessions will be the Los Angeles Lakers' starting point guard Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Lakers' Brown 'irritated' after Bynum loses cool
Lakers coach Mike Brown voiced irritation after Andrew Bynum got his second technical in the third quarter against Houston, resulting in his star center's disqualification.

Brown: Blake to start over Sessions for now
The Los Angeles Lakers might have traded for Ramon Sessions with the intention of him replacing Derek Fisher, but that doesn't mean Sessions will replace Fisher's spot in the starting lineup just yet.

Brown didn't discuss Fisher trade with Kobe
Lakers coach Mike Brown said he did not address the team about Thursday's trades, nor did he confer with Kobe Bryant to hear his thoughts about losing his longtime backcourt mate in Derek Fisher.

Brown recants: Lakers' shot selection not issue
On second glance, Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown said that it wasn't poor shot selection from Kobe Bryant or anyone else that cost the Lakers in their epic collapse against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night.

Sources: Brown's X's and O's concern Lakers
There is growing concern among some Lakers players as to whether first-year coach Mike Brown and his staff have the X-and-O wherewithal to fix the Lakers' struggling offense, sources told ESPNLosAngeles.com on Wednesday.

Lakers' Brown wants Bryant in the MVP race
This year Mike Brown believes he's seeing another MVP-caliber season from Lakers guard Kobe Bryant.

Lakers' World Peace, Brown meet to clear air
Lakers head coach Mike Brown and starting small forward Metta World Peace had a clear-the-air meeting following Tuesday's shootaround to address media reports that had surfaced in the last several days that pointed to a rift.

World Peace, Lakers coach Brown clear the air
Lakers head coach Mike Brown and starting small forward Metta World Peace had a clear-the-air meeting following Tuesday's shootaround to address media reports that had surfaced in the last several days that pointed to a rift.

Lakers hold on, top Celtics 88-87 in OT (AP)

Paul Pierce's shot rimmed out in the final seconds of overtime, and Pau Gasol knew the game wasn't over yet. The ball bounced to Ray Allen, who gave it a two-handed push back toward the basket. "That shot that Ray Allen took was good, in my opinion," Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown said.

NBA suspends Lakers coach Brown 1 game (AP)
Los Angeles coach Mike Brown has been suspended one game without pay and fined $25,000 for making contact with a game official and failure to leave the court in a timely manner following his ejection in Saturday's game. The NBA announced the suspension Monday. Brown will miss Monday's game in Philadelphia against the 76ers.

Lakers' Brown suspended for bumping ref
Lakers coach Mike Brown was suspended one game and fined on Monday.

Lakers coach Brown suspended, fined
Los Angeles coach Mike Brown has been suspended one game without pay and fined $25,000 for making contact with a game official and failure to leave the court in a timely manner following his ejection in Saturday's game.

Lakers coach Brown suspended, fined
Los Angeles coach Mike Brown has been suspended one game without pay and fined $25,000 for making contact with a game official and failure to leave the court in a timely manner following his ejection in Saturday's game.

Jazz hand Lakers another road loss (AP)

Al Jefferson scored 18 points, Paul Millsap had 16, and Earl Watson keyed a game-clinching 14-0 fourth quarter run to help the Utah Jazz beat the Los Angeles Lakers 96-87 Saturday night. Watson scored eight points and had six assists in the fourth quarter as the Jazz beat the Lakers for the first time in three tries this season.

Source: Clippers eye Martin after early release
Mike Brown says Clippers are more settled in than Lakers right now.

Brown says Lakers have inquired about Arenas
Short on scoring and in need of help in their backcourt, Lakers coach Mike Brown said Tuesday the team has inquired about free agent guard Gilbert Arenas.

Brown: No Lakers job without LeBron days
Mike Brown credits the great play of LeBron James for helping him get the Lakers coaching job.

Brown says he'd like to reduce Kobe's minutes
Lakers coach Mike Brown says he'd like to reduce Kobe Bryant's minutes.

Lakers' Brown wants NBA to look at Griffin push
Mike Brown wants the NBA to review the non-call on Blake Griffin from Saturday night's game.

Brown: I'd be 'spoiled child' to rant about Cavs
Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown would have good reason to harbor bitterness toward the Cleveland Cavaliers but he says he understands the NBA is a business.

Brown: Personality separates Kobe and LeBron
Mike Brown said the main difference between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James is their personalities.

Barnes wins Lakers' starting small forward spot
It may have taken 10 games to happen, but Lakers coach Mike Brown has settled on a starting small forward. Matt Barnes won the job over Devin Ebanks.

Brown trusting treatment used on Kobe's wrist
Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown is aware how alarming it seems that Kobe Bryant is receiving an injection in his injured right wrist prior to every game, but he is trusting the treatment method.

Kobe vows to keep shooting; Brown backs him
Kobe Bryant vowed Monday to keep shooting.

Lakers' Brown plans to increase Bynum's role
Lakers coach Mike Brown is planning for Andrew Bynum to have an increased role this season.

Lakers' Brown: We're going to be in the playoffs
Heading into Tuesday's game against the Jazz, the Lakers face the prospect of starting 0-3 for the first time since the 1978-79 season. While Lakers coach Mike Brown isn't happy about the results, he remains optimistic.

Lakers drop to 0-2 with loss to Kings (AP)

Marcus Thornton scored 12 of his 27 points in the fourth quarter and the Sacramento Kings opened the season in grand fashion, beating the Los Angeles Lakers at home for the first time in more than three years, 100-91 on Monday night. Tyreke Evans added 20 points, John Salmons had 13 and DeMarcus Cousins had 12 points and 11 rebounds for the Kings, who had lost nine of 10 to the Lakers and five...

Paul, Billups shine in Clippers debuts (AP)

Chris Paul had 17 points, nine assists and seven rebounds in his Los Angeles Clippers debut and Chauncey Billups made an equally impressive first impression with his new club, scoring 23 points in a 114-95 victory over the Lakers on Monday night. The first of two preseason games between the teams followed a dizzying two-week media frenzy in both camps, during which time the Clippers acquired Paul...

Kobe: New Lakers coach Brown not a 'pushover'
Kobe Bryant says new Lakers coach Mike Brown is not a pushover.

Lakers' Brown to use World Peace off of bench
New Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike Brown has decided to use Metta World Peace, the starting small forward during the 2010 and 2011 seasons, as a reserve.

Lakers hire Ham as assistant coach (AP)
The Los Angeles Lakers have hired Darvin Ham to be an assistant to new coach Mike Brown. Ham was hired by the Lakers on Monday, joining John Kuester, Chuck Person and Quin Snyder on Brown's staff. Ham spent the last three seasons on the coaching staff of the New Mexico Thunderbirds of the NBA's D-League, including the past season as their head coach.

Lakers announce Ham will join coaching staff
The Lakers have hired Darvin Ham to join new coach Mike Brown's staff, the team's website announced Monday.

New Lakers coach Brown busy despite lockout
New Lakers coach Mike Brown has had plenty to do despite the NBA lockout.

Shaw: Learned Lakers went with Brown on TV
Brian Shaw, the former Los Angeles Lakers' assistant coach once thought to be the heir apparent to Phil Jackson, said the way he learned he didn't get the job to replace Jackson was by hearing about it on TV.

Lakers hire Italian coach Messina as consultant
The Lakers hired famed Italian coach Ettore Messina, who will serve as a coaching consultant to new head coach Mike Brown, the team announced Friday.

Lakers add Person, Snyder to staff
Chuck Person and Quin Snyder have been hired by the Los Angeles Lakers as assistants to new coach Mike Brown.

Lakers add Person, Snyder to staff
Chuck Person and Quin Snyder have been hired by the Los Angeles Lakers as assistants to new coach Mike Brown.

Person, Snyder added to Lakers coaching staff
Chuck Person and Quin Snyder have been hired by the Los Angeles Lakers as assistants to new coach Mike Brown.

Lakers hire Person, Snyder as assistants (AP)

Chuck Person and Quin Snyder have been hired by the Los Angeles Lakers as assistants to new coach Mike Brown. They join John Kuester, the former Detroit Pistons head coach, on Brown's staff. Person spent the last two seasons working with the Lakers under retired coach Phil Jackson. Previously, he spent two seasons each as an assistant with Sacramento and Indiana, where he played 13 years in the...

Lakers' Brown hires Kuester as assistant (AP)
The Los Angeles Lakers have hired John Kuester as an assistant under new coach Mike Brown, reuniting the duo who worked in Cleveland together. Kuester spent the last two seasons as coach of the Detroit Pistons before being fired June 5. Previously, he spent 14 years as an NBA assistant, working in Boston, Philadelphia, Detroit, New Jersey, Orlando and Cleveland, where he worked under Brown.

Brown, Kuester reunite with Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers have hired John Kuester as an assistant under new coach Mike Brown, reuniting the duo who worked in Cleveland together.

New Lakers coach Brown OK with Kobe's silence
New Lakers coach Mike Brown is "more than OK" with Kobe Bryant's public silence about Brown's hiring.

Source: Lakers to hire ex-Utah coach Boylen
Former University of Utah coach Jim Boylen will join Mike Brown's Lakers staff as an assistant, a source said.

Sources: Lakers coach Brown closing in on staff
Lakers coach Mike Brown has shortened his list of assistant coach candidates.

Lakers captain Fisher dines with coach Brown
Lakers captain Derek Fisher had dinner with new coach Mike Brown on Thursday.

Bryant stays mum on new coach Brown (AP)

Kobe Bryant had plenty to say about how he wants to help end homelessness among youth in Los Angeles. The NBA superstar had nothing to say about new Lakers coach Mike Brown. Bryant and his wife, Vanessa, appeared together at a nonprofit in Hollywood on Tuesday to announce the formation of their new foundation focused on improving the lives of youth and families in need.

Kobe remains mum on new Lakers coach Brown
Kobe Bryant had plenty to say about how he wants to help end homelessness among youth in Los Angeles. The NBA superstar had nothing to say about new Lakers coach Mike Brown.

Source: Italian coach Messina joins Lakers' staff
Italian coach Ettore Messina has agreed to join Mike Brown's coaching staff with the Lakers, a source familiar with the negotiations said.

Reports: Lakers to introduce Brown on Tuesday
The Lakers will finally introduce Mike Brown as head coach on Tuesday, according to multiple reports.

Mike Brown introduced by Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers introduce Mike Brown as their new head coach.

Brown: First meeting with Kobe 'went very well'
Mike Brown has taken over as the new coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and says he's ready to help the team build on its past success.

Brown introduced as Lakers coach
Mike Brown has taken over as the new coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and says he's ready to help the team build on its past success.

Lakers regret not talking Brown hire with Kobe
Jim Buss, son of Los Angeles Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss, says he regrets not talking to Kobe Bryant about the decision to hire Mike Brown as Phil Jackson's successor, according to a report.

Brown's job is to derail LeBron, Heat
Mike Brown and Lakers want each other for one reason: to stop LeBron.

Source: Lakers, Brown finalizing negotiations
The Lakers are finalizing a deal to make Mike Brown their next coach, a source said on Wednesday.

Sources: Lakers won't keep assistant GM Lester
On the same day Mike Brown agreed in principle to a four-year, $18.25 million deal to replace Phil Jackson as the next coach the Lakers, assistant GM Ronnie Lester will not be brought back when his contract expires at the end of June, sources say.

Lakers make offer to former Cavaliers head coach Mike Brown
Lakers reportedly make offer to ex-Cavs coach Mike Brown to replace Phil.

Reports: Lakers hire Brown as coach
The Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday hired former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown to replace Phil Jackson, according to multiple reports.

Report: Lakers to hire Mike Brown
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to name ex-Cavs coach Mike Brown as Phil Jackson's replacement, Comcast SportsNet reported Tuesday citing sources.

Sources: Lakers end interviews; Brown in lead?
The Lakers have moved passed the interview phase of their head coaching search and have narrowed down the field of candidates to Mike Brown, Rick Adelman and Brian Shaw, according to multiple sources.

Sources: Lakers mulling ex-Cavs coach Brown
The Lakers are taking a deliberate approach to their search for a successor to Phil Jackson, but NBA coaching sources told ESPN.com the team has added Mike Brown to its list of candidates.

Pacers eyeing Brown, Adelman for coach
Indiana Pacers president Larry Bird says he's interested in contacting Mike Brown and Rick Adelman about filling the head coaching spot.

Ex-Cavs coach Brown, Adelman on Pacers' list
Indiana Pacers president Larry Bird says he's interested in contacting Mike Brown and Rick Adelman about filling the head coaching spot.

Sources: Warriors eyeing Brown, Mavs' Casey
Former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown and Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Dwane Casey will receive two of the first interviews that the Golden State Warriors conduct in their search to replace Keith Smart, according to sources close to the process.

Ex-coach Mike Brown joins ESPN as NBA analyst
Former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown has been hired by ESPN as an analyst.

Ex-Cavs coach Brown becomes ESPN analyst (AP)
Former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown has been hired by ESPN as an analyst. Brown, who was fired in June after the Cavs lost to Boston in the Eastern Conference semifinals, will begin his TV stint on Christmas Day for the New York-Chicago telecast on ESPN 3D, the network said Thursday. Brown will also contribute as an ESPN studio analyst throughout the season.

Cavaliers' fallback plan could be Scott (AP)
Tom Izzo's rejection has left the Cleveland Cavaliers feeling unwanted. Izzo was owner Dan Gilbert's first choice to replace Mike Brown as the Cavs' coach, a position that may not be filled until LeBron James signs as a free agent -- in Cleveland or elsewhere. Izzo's decision Tuesday to remain at Michigan State has complicated things for the Cavs, who are now preparing for the NBA...

Spartans AD: Cavs interested in Izzo (AP)
Michigan State's athletic director says the Cleveland Cavaliers have not offered Tom Izzo a contract but confirms the NBA team is interested in the Spartans' coach. Mark Hollis spoke to The Associated Press on Monday after The News-Herald of Willoughby, Ohio, reported the Cavs have made Izzo an offer to replace fired coach Mike Brown.

Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly taking run at Michigan State Spartans coach Tom Izzo
The News-Herald in Northern Ohio reported on its website Sunday night that the Cavaliers -- fresh off dismissing coach Mike Brown and parting ways with GM Danny Ferry -- have formally extended an offer to Michigan State coach Tom Izzo to replace Brown.

Cavs GM Ferry resigns after 5 seasons (AP)
Danny Ferry resigned as general manager of the Cleveland Cavaliers, a surprise decision that complicates the most important offseason in team history. Ferry's departure Friday after five seasons occurred two weeks after the club fired coach Mike Brown following the team's second-round loss to the Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs.

Eric Mangini of Cleveland Browns feels for former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown
Now the longest tenured coach of Cleveland's three professional teams, Eric Mangini understands Mike Brown's pain.

Brown thanks Cavs for stint as coach
Fired Cleveland coach Mike Brown has called his five years with Cavaliers an "exceptional experience."

Former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown issues first statement since being fired
Fired Cleveland coach Mike Brown has called his five years with Cavaliers an "exceptional experience."

Brown thanks Cavaliers for 5 seasons (AP)
Fired Cleveland coach Mike Brown has called his five years with Cavaliers an "exceptional experience." Brown, who has not publicly commented since his dismissal, issued a statement through the team Wednesday in which he thanked the Cavs for the opportunity to coach in Cleveland. Brown was fired in the aftermath of a second-round playoff collapse to Boston.

Cavs fire coach Brown after 5 seasons (AP)
The Cleveland Cavaliers have fired coach Mike Brown after five seasons for failing to win an NBA title with LeBron James. Brown's dismissal has been expected since the Cavs were eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the second round of the playoffs. In five seasons, Brown, who had one year left on his contract, went 272-138 (.663) and was the league's coach of the year in 2009.

Reports: Cavs fire Brown as coach
After an ugly playoff exit, the Cleveland Cavaliers have fired coach Mike Brown, according to Internet reports.

Cavs fire Brown after 5 seasons as coach
The Cleveland Cavaliers have fired coach Mike Brown after five seasons for failing to win an NBA title with LeBron James.

Source: Cleveland Cavaliers fire head coach Mike Brown
The Cleveland Cavaliers have fired Mike Brown, a source close to the head coach told ESPN The Magazine's Ric Bucher.

Cleveland Cavaliers begin organizational meetings with Mike Brown in limbo
The Cleveland Cavaliers began their offseason review. It didn't begin with Mike Brown being shown the door.

Cavs begin assessing what went wrong (AP)
The Cleveland Cavaliers began their offseason review. It didn't begin with Mike Brown being shown the door. Brown remained in place as coach on Monday as the Cavs began working on their assessment of what went wrong this season. Cleveland was ousted from the playoffs last week by the Boston Celtics, who upset the NBA's top regular-season team in six games.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy rips critics of Cleveland Cavaliers and coach Mike Brown
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy rips critics of Cleveland Cavaliers and coach Mike Brown.

Cleveland Cavaliers staying with coach Mike Brown, owner Dan Gilbert says
The Cavaliers, fresh off a six-game, second-round loss to the Celtics, are staying with coach Mike Brown.

Cavs owner says Brown hasn't been fired (AP)
The Cleveland Cavaliers are keeping coach Mike Brown -- for now. Team owner Dan Gilbert refuted a report Friday that Brown had been fired. He says the team is "going through the evaluation process" and stressed the team would not react emotionally after "unexpectedly" losing to the Boston Celtics in the second round of the playoffs.

Cavs owner: Coach Brown not fired
Cleveland Cavaliers majority owner Dan Gilbert refuted an SI.com report Friday, saying that head coach Mike Brown had not been fired and that the team was going through an "evaluation" process.

Cavs may switch LeBron on to Rondo
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown says LeBron James might play more defense on Boston guard Rajon Rondo in Game 5 of their playoff.

2010 NBA Playoffs: Cleveland Cavaliers practice day after humbling Game 2 loss to Boston Celtics
Seething after Cleveland's Game 2 loss, Cavaliers coach Mike Brown is having his Cavaliers practice.

Cavs have unexpected practice after loss (AP)
Seething after Cleveland's Game 2 loss, Cavaliers coach Mike Brown is having his Cavaliers practice. The Cavs had been expected to have Tuesday off after being embarrassed 104-86 by the Boston Celtics on Monday night. But Brown wants his players to watch tape and discuss adjustments in the best-of-seven series, which is tied 1-1.

Shaq, James could return vs. Hawks (AP)
Shaquille O'Neal has been cleared by team doctors and could play in Cleveland's regular-season finale Wednesday at Atlanta. He might be joined by LeBron James, although Cavaliers coach Mike Brown hasn't made any decisions yet. The team will hold a contact practice on Tuesday, and depending how O'Neal fares, Brown could start him against the Hawks.

Cavs' James sits out third straight game (AP)
LeBron James missed his third straight game for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are putting rest ahead of their record as the NBA playoffs near. Coach Mike Brown decided to sit James and starting forward Anthony Parker for the team's regular-season home finale Sunday against the Orlando Magic. Brown also might keep James out of the lineup Wednesday night when the Cavs close their regular season at...

Granger scores 36 as Pacers down Cavs (AP)
Danny Granger had 36 points, including nine of Indiana's final 11, and the Pacers beat the Cleveland Cavaliers' backups 116-113 on Friday night for their ninth win in 11 games. With home-court advantage clinched through the NBA finals, Cavs coach Mike Brown is using this week to rest some regulars.

Brown may keep James out for season (AP)
LeBron James' regular season could be over. James was one of four starters missing for Friday's game against the Indiana Pacers. With home-court advantage already clinched throughout the playoffs, coach Mike Brown didn't rule out his healthy superstar also sitting against Orlando on Sunday and Atlanta on Wednesday.

With overall top record, Cavs rest James (AP)
With the league's best record locked up and their eyes on a playoff run, the Cleveland Cavaliers held LeBron James out of Thursday's game against the Chicago Bulls. Coach Mike Brown said James has "some bumps and bruises" and acknowledged that recent injuries to Milwaukee's Andrew Bogut and Toronto's Chris Bosh weighed on his mind.

Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown ejected from game against Boston Celtics
Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown was ejected from Sunday's game against Boston after drawing two technical fouls midway through the third quarter.

Brown tossed with Cavs down big to Celts (AP)
Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown was ejected from Sunday's game against Boston after drawing two technical fouls midway through the third quarter. Brown picked up the first when he argued about a technical given to guard Mo Williams for arguing a non-call. Brown angrily stormed onto the court and was quickly tossed by referee Monty McCutchen.

Cavs F Varejao misses third straight (AP)
Cavaliers reserve forward Anderson Varejao of Brazil missed his third straight game with a sore left hamstring. Cavs coach Mike Brown said the team decided to keep Varejao out of Friday night's game against the Atlanta Hawks as a precaution. Varejao, who injured his hamstring a week ago in a loss at San Antonio, could return for Sunday's game in Boston.

Cavaliers C O'Neal closer to returning (AP)
Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal is getting closer to returning from a thumb injury. O'Neal took part in some of practice Thursday, although coach Mike Brown isn't counting on him being back before the playoffs. O'Neal has been sidelined since tearing a ligament in his right thumb Feb.

Cavs F Varejao out with sore hamstring (AP)
Cavaliers forward Anderson Varejao is sitting out Cleveland's game against Sacramento because of a sore left hamstring. Varejao was hurt in Friday's loss at San Antonio and Cavs coach Mike Brown decided to rest him Sunday because Cleveland has two days off following the game against the Kings.

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James given night off against the Milwaukee Bucks
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown says he's sitting his superstar, calling it "just a coach's decision" to keep him out of Cleveland's game against Milwaukee on Saturday night.

Slumping Cleveland Cavaliers will start Antawn Jamison on Tuesday vs. New Orleans Hornets
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown and general manager Danny Ferry were adamant that the addition of Antawn Jamison would be seamless. It seems Cleveland has hit a stitch.

Cavs may give Jamison first start (AP)
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown and general manager Danny Ferry were adamant that the addition of Antawn Jamison would be seamless. It seems Cleveland has hit a stitch. The Cavaliers have lost all three games they've played since trading center Zydrunas Ilgauskas to Washington for Jamison as part of a three-team deal.

Antawn Jamison to make debut with Cavaliers from bench
Cleveland coach Mike Brown has decided to have Antawn Jamison come off the bench in his first game with the Cavaliers.

James' 44, Williams' 48-footer lift Cavs (AP)

LeBron James scored a season-high 44 points and Mo Williams hit a backbreaking halfcourt shot in the fourth quarter to help the Cleveland Cavaliers close out a 102-89 win against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night. Williams tracked down the ball after Thabo Sefolosha had tipped it into the backcourt, then turned and fired a 48-footer with coach Mike Brown yelling to him as the shot clock...

Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown regrets not playing Zydrunas Ilgauskas
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown says if he had it to do over again, he would have played Zydrunas Ilgauskas on Saturday.

Cavs' Brown regrets sitting Ilgauskas (AP)
Zydrunas Ilgauskas never got off the bench during his first attempt at history. Given another chance, Cavaliers coach Mike Brown assured it will happen. Ilgauskas will become Cleveland's all-time leader in games played when he enters Wednesday's game at home against Phoenix. He currently shares the record of 723 games with Cleveland general manager Danny Ferry.

James: Coach should have played Ilgauskas
The Cavaliers concluded practice on Monday with a lighthearted game of football. The one player missing was the same one missing Saturday night - Zydrunas Ilgauskas. Ilgauskas was set to become Cleveland's franchise leader in games played Saturday against Dallas, but coach Mike Brown elected not to play him. It's a decision that has upset Ilgauskas and LeBron James. "I definitely thought he should've played," James said. "As a friend of his, I was very upset and I know he was, also.

LeBron James questions coach Mike Brown on Zydrunas Ilgauskas benching
LeBron James says Cavaliers coach Mike Brown should have let Zydrunas Ilgauskas set a record last weekend.

Shaq expected to return from injury vs. Bobcats
Cleveland Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal has participated in shootaround is expected to play against Charlotte. Coach Mike Brown said O'Neal "will probably play" unless he has a setback before Friday night's game. O'Neal has sat out the past six games with a strained left shoulder. Brown said O'Neal will be limited to between 24 and 26 minutes against the Bobcats and again Saturday against Dallas as he works his way back into game condition. O'Neal is averaging 11.3 points and 6.

Shaq misses fifth straight game (AP)
Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal is out for Saturday's game against Philadelphia, the fifth straight game he has missed with a shoulder injury. O'Neal hasn't played since a Nov. 12 win over Miami. Cavs coach Mike Brown said before Saturday's game against Philadelphia that O'Neal won't play in a game again until he practices.

Shaq misses fourth straight game (AP)
Cleveland center Shaquille O'Neal has missed his fourth straight game with a strained right shoulder. O'Neal did not travel with the Cavaliers for their game Friday night against the Pacers. He is averaging 11.3 points and 6.9 rebounds. Cleveland coach Mike Brown didn't give a timetable for his return.

Cleveland Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal could miss next couple of games
Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown says Shaquille O'Neal could miss the team's next couple of games with a strained shoulder.

Cavs big men Shaq, Varejao sitting out (AP)
Shaquille O'Neal and Anderson Varejao are inactive for the Cleveland Cavaliers' game against Golden State. Varejao is scratched with a hip contusion. O'Neal is missing his second straight game with a strained shoulder, and coach Mike Brown doesn't expect either player back for Wednesday night's game at Washington.

Shaq doubtful vs. Warriors with shoulder injury
Shaquille O'Neal's mysterious shoulder injury is expected to keep him out of Cleveland's game Tuesday against Golden State. O'Neal, who's still receiving treatment, did not practice Monday and is considered doubtful for the game. Cavaliers coach Mike Brown would not say which shoulder was injured. "We're not defining it anymore than just a shoulder strain," team spokesman Tad Carper said. O'Neal was scratched minutes before Saturday's 107-103 victory against Utah.

O'Neal out of Cavaliers' lineup Saturday
Shaquille O'Neal was scratched from the Cleveland Cavaliers' lineup Saturday night against Utah because of a strained shoulder. O'Neal started Cleveland's first nine games, averaging 11.3 points and 6.8 rebounds. Zydrunas Ilgauskas was expected to start at center in place of O'Neal. The announcement was made after coach Mike Brown's pregame availability. Cleveland also will be without guard Delonte West, who was inactive for the third straight game.

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West inactive vs. Heat, status day to day
Troubled Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West is inactive for the second night in a row, and coach Mike Brown says his status is day to day.

Troubled Cavaliers G West inactive again (AP)
Troubled Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West was inactive for the second night in a row Thursday, and coach Mike Brown says his status was day to day. West made the trip to Miami but sat out against the Heat because of an "internal matter," Brown said. That was the same reason given for West missing Wednesday's win at Orlando.

Mike Brown: Delonte West to continue coming off Cleveland Cavaliers bench
Mike Brown isn't placing restrictions on Delonte West, although Brown won't start him Tuesday night against Washington.

Cleveland Cavaliers Delonte West 'doubtful' for Tuesday season opener vs. Boston Celtics
Troubled guard Delonte West was listed as "doubtful" for tonight's NBA season opener against Boston, but Cleveland coach Mike Brown left little doubt when pressed on the issue: There is almost no chance West will be on the court Tuesday night.

Troubled West inactive for Cavs opener vs. Celtics
Troubled Cavaliers guard Delonte West is doubtful for the season opener against the Boston Celtics. Cleveland coach Mike Brown said after the team's shootaround that West would likely be inactive for Tuesday night's game. West has battled bipolar disorder in the past and has had a turbulent off-season. He was arrested on weapons charges near his Maryland home in September.

Troubled West likely to be inactive for Cavs opener
Troubled Cavaliers guard Delonte West is doubtful for the season opener against the Boston Celtics. Cleveland coach Mike Brown said after the team's shootaround that West would likely be inactive for Tuesday night's game. West has battled bipolar disorder in the past and has had a turbulent off-season. He was arrested on weapons charges near his Maryland home in September.

Domestic violence report hits embattled West
Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown says a domestic violence report has been filed against guard Delonte West. Calls to Cleveland police by The Associated Press were not returned Monday. West has not appeared in any preseason games, and Brown has not decided yet whether he will be active for the season opener Tuesday against Boston. He attended the Cavs' practice Monday. West left the team twice during training camp for personal reasons and has been treated in the past for bipolar disorder.

Williams returns as Cavs rout Mavs 96-66 (AP)

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks took different paths in getting ready for the regular season. Cavaliers coach Mike Brown played his starters into the second half Tuesday night, while Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle didn't suit up three of his stars. Cleveland, led by Mo Williams' 16 points and 11 assists, rolled to a 96-66 preseason victory.

Nowitzki, Mavs beat short-handed Cavs (AP)

Dirk Nowitzki scored 19 points before sitting out the final quarter and the Dallas Mavericks beat the short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers 93-82 on Saturday night. Cavaliers coach Mike Brown held out starters LeBron James, Shaquille O'Neal and Mo Williams on the second night of back-to-back preseason games after losing at San Antonio on Friday.

West back at practice with Cavaliers
Cavaliers guard Delonte West returned to practice Tuesday after missing one week to attend to personal issues. West took part in the team's workout at Cleveland Clinic Courts, but was not with his teammates for the portion of practice open to the media. He was excused last week by the Cavaliers, who wanted to give him time to deal with legal and medical issues. Coach Mike Brown has happy to have West back, but is handling him one day at a time.

Cleveland Cavaliers impressed by Shaquille O'Neal's conditioning at training camp
Mike Brown, LeBron James and the rest of the Cavaliers have been impressed by Shaquille O'Neal's conditioning through the first few days of camp. At 37, the 325-pound center looks trim and is moving well.

O'Neal reports to Cavs in great shape (AP)
Once Mike Brown learned that Shaquille O'Neal was wearing a Speedo on national television, he wasn't concerned about his new star's physical conditioning. The Cleveland Cavaliers center spent the offseason filming his reality show "Shaq Vs," in which he competed against various top athletes in their sports.

West still absent due to personal issues
LeBron James says the Cavaliers will welcome back Delonte West, whenever he comes back. West was absent from training camp for the second straight day Wednesday morning while he deals with personal issues. Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry has spoken at length to West, coach Mike Brown said, adding that the absence is unexcused and that West will be fined. Ferry declined to meet with reporters Wednesday.

Cavs' guard West misses team's first practice
Troubled Cavaliers guard Delonte West did not show up for Cleveland's first practice and his absence was unexcused. Cavs coach Mike Brown said West did not participate in the team's first workout of training camp at Cleveland Clinic Courts on Tuesday and did not know if West would be at the evening session.

O'Neal tours Cavs' practice facility (AP)
Shaquille O'Neal took his first look at his new basketball home. The 15-time All-Star center toured the Cavaliers' suburban practice facility and took his physical on Wednesday, one day before he is formally introduced as superstar LeBron James' newest teammate. O'Neal and a small group of associates met briefly with Cavs coach Mike Brown and others at the Cleveland Clinic Courts in...

Cavs win eighth straight, rout Bobcats (AP)

LeBron James scored 25 points and the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Charlotte Bobcats 94-74 on Saturday night for their eighth straight victory. The Cavaliers were never threatened and their relentless defense led to yet another rout in their franchise-best 17-3 start. A night after holding Indiana's Danny Granger to four points, James helped limit Charlotte's second-leading scorer, Gerald Wallace,...

LeBron gets day off, Pistons beat Cavs (AP)

Rodney Stuckey scored 20 points, Tayshaun Prince added 17 points and the Detroit Pistons capitalized on LeBron James' absence to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 97-79 in a preseason game Wednesday night. James went through pregame warm ups before taking a planned day off. The Cavaliers play their final exhibition Friday against the Wizards.

Raptors rip Cavs as James logs 8 minutes (AP)

LeBron James spent a rare night relaxing on the bench, Mo Williams showed why Cleveland traded for him this summer, and the Cavaliers opened their exhibition season with a 104-84 loss to the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday night. James played just 8 minutes in the first quarter before he raised his hand for a substitute and coach Mike Brown pulled his superstar for the remainder of Cleveland's...

Shaq loses another badge for rap about Kobe
Shaquille O'Neal's raunchy rap in which he mocked former teammate Kobe Bryant is costing him another of his lawman badges. Bedford County Sheriff Mike Brown said Wednesday that he has asked the Phoenix Suns center to return a badge he was given for his work with the southwest Virginia county's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Shaq to lose another police badge (AP)
Shaquille O'Neal's raunchy rap in which he mocked former teammate Kobe Bryant is costing him another of his lawman badges. Bedford County Sheriff Mike Brown said Wednesday that he has asked the Phoenix Suns center to return a badge he was given for his work with the southwest Virginia county's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Brown needs to come up with better plan for LeBron
LeBron James needs an offensive scheme that involves more motion. And that's up to Cavs coach Mike Brown, Peter Vecsey says.

Cavs tie series, extend Celts' road woes (AP)

Back to even, and back to Boston -- with authority. LeBron James scored 21 points, jamming in a powerhouse dunk over a defenseless Kevin Garnett in the final two minutes, as the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the homesick Celtics 88-77 in Game 4 on Monday night to tie the best-of-seven series at 2-2. Still stuck in a shooting slump, James dominated down the stretch and finished with 13 assists -- four in...

James helps Cavs finish off Wizards in 6 (AP)

LeBron James was everywhere and did a little bit of everything. And, just as he seems to do every spring, he led the Cleveland Cavaliers past the Washington Wizards in the first round of the playoffs. James compiled 27 points, 13 rebounds and 13 assists for his third career playoff triple-double, all the while helping slow Caron Butler at the defensive end, and the Cavaliers beat the Wizards 105-88...

Cavaliers try to bounce back in Game 4 (AP)
After the Cleveland Cavaliers' worst playoff loss ever, coach Mike Brown got a text message from his junior college coach. "One hiccup does not mean indigestion," said Brown, recalling the note from Tom Bennett of Mesa Community College in Arizona. "I got a nice little laugh out of him. It's the truth.

Cavaliers' James cleared to play against Nets
A little rest was all LeBron James needed. James, who sat out of practice for two days to rest his ailing back, will play Wednesday night when the Cleveland Cavaliers host the New Jersey Nets. Following the morning shootaround, Cavs coach Mike Brown said James will play. The NBA's leading scorer has been bothered by back spasms for weeks. They became more severe during the second half of home losses to Chicago and Orlando. The Cavaliers are trying to wrap up the No.

LeBron misses practice, could miss Nets game
LeBron James didn't practice for the second straight day in order to rest his troublesome back before the Cleveland Cavaliers begin their final push heading into the NBA playoffs. James, who has been dealing with back spasms for a few weeks, received treatment while his teammates prepared for Wednesday night's game against the New Jersey Nets. Cavs coach Mike Brown said Tuesday it's possible James could sit out. "I know he wants to play," Brown said. "But we have to be cautious with him now.

Cavaliers G Gibson expected to play; Wallace likely out
The Cleveland Cavaliers will have guard Daniel Gibson available against Charlotte, but forward Ben Wallace will likely miss his second straight game. Coach Mike Brown said after Wednesday's shootaround that Gibson has recovered after being forced out of Sunday's win over Philadelphia with recurring pain in his left ankle. It's the same ankle that caused Gibson to miss 18 games earlier this season. Brown said he's being cautious with Wallace, who has been cleared to return from back spasms.

Cavaliers F Wallace sits out vs. 76ers (AP)
Cleveland Cavaliers forward Ben Wallace missed Sunday night's game against Philadelphia with recurring back spasms. Wallace was forced to leave Saturday's game against Detroit when he re-injured his back in the third quarter. He had returned to the lineup after missing two-plus games with the injury. Cleveland coach Mike Brown said Wallace had been cleared to play by the team's medical staff, but he...

Cavs' Pavlovic back in starting lineup (AP)
Cleveland guard Sasha Pavlovic returned from a 23-game absence because of a sprained left foot and was in the Cavaliers' starting lineup Wednesday night against the Nets. Pavlovic was hurt Jan. 23 in a victory over Washington. Despite that long layoff, coach Mike Brown said he went with his "gut" in deciding to put Pavlovic right back in the lineup.

Ilgauskas still out with strained back
Cleveland's Zydrunas Ilgauskas missed his fifth straight game with a strained back Monday night and the team has no timetable for his return. While there apparently has been some progress in Ilgauskas' recovery, Cavaliers coach Mike Brown doesn't know when his 7-foot-3 center will be back. "He's done well in the past week, but in terms of beyond that, I don't know," Brown said. Ilgauskas, in his 10th NBA season, is averaging 13.5 points and 9.6 rebounds.

Strained back sidelines Cavaliers center Ilgauskas
Zydrunas Ilgauskas missed the Cavaliers' game Sunday against Chicago because of a strained back, and coach Mike Brown said he isn't sure when the 7-foot-3 center will return.

Strained back sidelines Cavaliers center Ilgauskas
Zydrunas Ilgauskas missed the Cavaliers' game Sunday against Chicago because of a strained back, and coach Mike Brown said he isn't sure when the 7-foot-3 center will return. Ilgauskas didn't practice Saturday and was examined by team doctors. "It's kind of a day-to-day thing," Brown said. "More than anything else, it's a precautionary measure. He needs a rest." Ilgauskas, one of the team's most consistent players, is averaging 13.5 points and 9.6 rebounds a game.

Strained back sidelines Cavs C Ilgauskas (AP)
Zydrunas Ilgauskas missed the Cavaliers' game Sunday against Chicago because of a strained back, and coach Mike Brown said he isn't sure when the 7-foot-3 center will return. Ilgauskas didn't practice Saturday and was examined by team doctors. "It's kind of a day-to-day thing," Brown said. "More than anything else, it's a precautionary measure.

Nuggets rout listless Cavaliers 113-83 (AP)

One NBA player lords over LeBron James. Carmelo Anthony rules Cleveland's hoops King. "I know he hates losing to me," Anthony said with a laugh. Anthony scored 27 points, All-Star sidekick Allen Iverson added 25 and the Denver Nuggets rolled to a 113-83 win Sunday night over the injury-depleted Cavaliers.

Cavs extend Brown through 2010-11
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown received a two-year contract extension Monday that will keep him with the club through the 2010-11 season. Brown is in his third season with the Cavaliers, who won their first Eastern Conference title last season before they were swept in the finals by San Antonio. His contract was to expire after the 2008-09 season. Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry and owner Dan Gilbert had been discussing an extension since the summer.

Cavs extend coach Brown's deal by two seasons
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown received a two-year contract extension Monday that will keep him with the club through the 2010-11 season.

Cavs coach Brown gets 2-year extension (AP)
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown received a two-year contract extension Monday that will keep him with the club through the 2010-11 season. Brown is in his third season with the Cavaliers, who won their first Eastern Conference title last season before they were swept in the finals by San Antonio. His contract was to expire after the 2008-09 season.

James rallies Cavs to win with 24 in 4th (AP)

For three quarters he was ordinary. Then, when it mattered most, LeBron James was unstoppable. James scored 39 points, including 24 in the fourth, to help the Cleveland Cavaliers rally for a 93-90 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Sunday. "In the fourth quarter, he was amazing," Cleveland coach Mike Brown said.

James rallies Cavs to win with 24 in 4th (AP)

For three quarters he was ordinary. Then, when it mattered most, LeBron James was unstoppable. James scored 39 points, including 24 in the fourth, to help the Cleveland Cavaliers rally for a 93-90 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Sunday. "In the fourth quarter, he was amazing," Cleveland coach Mike Brown said.

LeBron skips practice with sore big toe
Cavaliers star LeBron James did not practice Thursday because of a sore right big toe and was listed as probable for Friday's game against Sacramento. James, who missed a career-high five games earlier this season with a sprained left index finger, scored 36 points in a 98-94 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night. The Cavaliers went 0-5 without James and at 15-17 are still trying to recover. Coach Mike Brown said after practice that James was fine and likely would play Friday.

Cleveland's Egan, 70, has bypass surgery
Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Hank Egan had bypass surgery Saturday morning, and coach Mike Brown said there is no timetable for Egan's return to the team. Brown said he has spoken with team doctors about the surgery, which was performed at Fairview Hospital in suburban Cleveland. "He's going to be out for a while," Brown said. "The surgery went well." Egan, 70, has been in coaching for nearly 40 years, including the last three as an assistant with the Cavs.

Cavs assistant coach Egan has bypass surgery
Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Hank Egan had bypass surgery Saturday morning, and coach Mike Brown said there is no timetable for Egan's return to the team.

Cavs assistant Egan has bypass surgery (AP)
Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Hank Egan had bypass surgery Saturday morning, and coach Mike Brown said there is no timetable for Egan's return to the team. Brown said he has spoken with team doctors about the surgery, which was performed at Fairview Hospital in suburban Cleveland. "He's going to be out for a while," Brown said.

Boone's FTs help Nets sink Cavs (AP)

His players couldn't stop the Nets, so Mike Brown hoped Josh Boone's free throw shooting would do it for him. That didn't work, either. Boone scored a season-high 15 points, foiling the Hack-a-Boone strategy by making just enough when he was twice fouled intentionally in the fourth quarter, and the New Jersey Nets beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 105-97 on Friday night.

LeBron to miss 4th straight game
LeBron James will sit out his fourth straight game Wednesday night because of a sprained left index finger, the most games he's missed because of an injury. The Cavaliers are 0-3 without James and have lost four straight. They were embarrassed by New Jersey 100-79 Tuesday night and criticized by coach Mike Brown afterward for a lack of intensity. James was hurt a week ago at Detroit when Nazr Mohammed slapped at the ball as James attempted to shoot.

LeBron to miss 3rd straight game
LeBron James missed his third straight game Tuesday night because of a sprained left index finger. The Cavaliers (9-9) are 0-2 without their superstar forward. Coach Mike Brown wouldn't comment on whether James' injury is worse than first anticipated. James was hurt in the second quarter Wednesday night in a loss to Detroit, when Nazr Mohammed slapped at the ball as James began to shoot.

LeBron to miss game with sprained finger (AP)
Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James will sit out with a sprained left index finger Friday night against the Toronto Raptors, who will be without forward Chris Bosh because of a strained groin. James, the league's leading scorer, is averaging 30.7 points, 7.6 rebounds and 8.1 assists. Cavaliers coach Mike Brown said guard Devin Brown would start in James' place.

LeBron sits with sprained finger
Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James will sit out with a sprained left index finger Friday night against the Raptors, who will be without forward Chris Bosh because of a strained groin. James, the league's leading scorer, is averaging 30.7 points, 7.6 rebounds and 8.1 assists. Cavaliers coach Mike Brown said guard Devin Brown would likely start in James' place.

Williams' late layup lifts Jazz by Cavs (AP)

Deron Williams made a layup with 1.3 seconds remaining, and the Utah Jazz overcame LeBron James' triple-double and tying 3-pointer in a 103-101 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday. Carlos Boozer had 23 points and 12 rebounds and Paul Millsap scored a career-high 24 points for the Jazz, who needed Williams to save them by driving the length of the court after James tied the score at...

Mavs shut down LeBron, rout Cavs 92-74 (AP)

They raised a championship banner. LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers then collapsed. Jason Terry made six 3-pointers and scored 24 points, Dirk Nowitzki added 15 and the Dallas Mavericks, whose NBA title pursuit last season ended with a stunning first-round exit against Golden State, opened 2007-08 with a 92-74 victory over the Cavaliers on Wednesday night.

Cavs missing holdouts Varejao, Pavlovic (AP)
With natural light bathing them inside their new $25 million cream-of-the-NBA-crop suburban training facility, the Cleveland Cavaliers huddled around coach Mike Brown following a long practice. They listened attentively, then, the Cavs touched hands before breaking in a familiar cry of "One, two, three, championship!" They didn't sound convincing.

James watches as Cavs rally past Pistons (AP)

Standing alone at the foul line, Dwayne Jones had confidence. More than 15,000 others weren't so certain. Jones, a backup big man trying to make Cleveland's roster, shook off four straight misses by dropping two free throws in the final second of regulation as the Cavaliers rallied for a 96-90 overtime win against the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night.