LeBron inspires Cavs, Hawks hammer Pacers

LeBron James was crucial as he helped the Cleveland Cavaliers to an important 114-90 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday.

The Cavaliers top the Eastern Conference and faced an intriguing battle away to the Clippers, but LeBron was ever-present as he helped his side to victory.

The All-Star scored 27 points and was supported well by JR Smith (17) and Kyrie Irving (17) in securing the win as Cleveland improved their record this season to 47-18.

They were joined on the winner's list by the Atlanta Hawks who triumphed over the Indiana Pacers 104-75.

The Pacers' Myles Turner top-scored the game with 19, but it was the team contribution of the Hawks that prevailed on the day.

Paul Millsap and Al Horford scored 18 points each while Kyle Korver (14) and Thabo Sefolosha (12) also got into double figures to help seal the win.

Derrick Favors' double-double of 28 points and 14 rebounds helped the Utah Jazz to a 108-99 win over the Sacramento Kings.

DeMarcus Cousins scored a double-double of his own for the fallen Kings with 31 points and 10 rebounds.

Both were bettered by Giannis Antetokounmpo who picked up a triple-double of 28 points, 11 rebounds and 14 assists during the Milwaukee Bucks 109-100 win over the Brooklyn Nets.

Kobe Bryant started his final game against the New York Knicks brightly but could not get the Los Angeles Lakers to a win as his side lost 90-87 at home.

Carmelo Anthony picked up a double-double for the visitors, finishing with 26 points and 12 rebounds.