Red-hot Cavs go for eighth straight win at Miami

(Basketball News) - The Cleveland Cavaliers target their eighth consecutive victory this evening when they visit Shaquille O’Neal and the Miami Heat at AmericanAirlines Arena.

On Wednesday, LeBron James posted his third triple-double of the season with 26 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists, as the Cavaliers defeated the New Jersey Nets, 91-85, at Quicken Loans Arena.

Drew Gooden added 18 points and six rebounds while Aleksandar Pavlovic contributed 14 points, including seven in the final three minutes, for Cleveland, which also won eight in a row earlier in the season from November 7-22.

Prior to their winning streak the Cavs had dropped six in a row.

James has been the catalyst during his team’s recent run. Since matching a season-low with 14 points against the Golden State Warriors in Cleveland’s last loss back on January 20, James is averaging 34.4 points with 8.0 rebounds and 7.7 assists

Cleveland, which will start a two-game homestand after tonight’s tilt, is 10-12 away from home this season.

Miami, meanwhile, comes in on a winning note as well after Dwyane Wade had 28 points, 11 assists and four blocks to lead the Heat over the Los Angeles Clippers, 118-114, at home on Monday. O’Neal added 25 points, eight boards and three blocks for Miami, which has won three in a row.

Gary Payton recorded 19 points, seven assists and six boards for the Heat, who had six players score in double figures on their way to their fifth win in six outings.

Miami was again without starting point guard Jason Williams, who missed his fourth straight game after receiving stitches on his ring finger following a weight lifting accident. He is questionable for tonight’s affair.

Wade, on the other hand, has showed no ill effects from a ankle sprain that caused him to miss Friday’s win over Charlotte. In the two-games since, the third-year pro has averaged 30 points and 10 assists.

The Heat, who will visit Vince Carter and the New Jersey Nets on Saturday, are 15-6 in their arena this season.

Miami lost to the Cavs earlier in the season, but could have an advantage tonight, as the home team in this series has won seven of the last eight meetings. Cleveland has also dropped five straight and 10 of its last 13 in South Beach.