Video: J.R. Smith and LeBron James connect on half-court alley-oop
LeBron James and the Cavaliers claimed their fifth straight victory by destroying the Hornets on Friday, and the highlights really piled up during the 129-90 romp.
The best of the bunch came just before halftime, when J.R. Smith and James made a long-distance connection that made the Quicken Loans Arena crowd erupt in appreciation.
Up more than 20 points midway through the second quarter, Kyrie Irving deflected a pass and tapped the loose ball to Smith as the Cavaliers broke out in transition. Smith looked up immediately as he corralled the ball and saw James streaking down the left wing behind the defense. Seizing the moment, Smith threw an alley-oop from behind half-court to James, who pulled it in and quickly dunked with both hands.
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James led the way with a game-high 25 points, nine assists, six rebounds and four steals. Smith added 21 points, four rebounds and four assists.
Al Jefferson paced the Hornets with a team-high 22 points and 11 rebounds. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist added 15 points and seven rebounds in the loss.
Cleveland improved to 24-20. Charlotte dropped to 18-26.
