Miami 86, Cleveland 93: There’s no longer a debate about Kobe v LeBron; it now is strictly LeBron v Jordan at the same age (23 and soon-to-be 24). Had it three times in the last week with relatives and other NBA fans, and everyone thinks this is the year LBJ gets his first title. LeBron is becoming a master defender – ask D Wade, who was shut down in the fourth as the Cavs rallied from nine down late to beat the Heat and capture victory No. 16 in a row at home. At 26-4, the Cavs are one game back of Boston for best record in the East.

Denver 117, New York 110: The Knicks refuse to play defense, and thus, they have lost six in a row. Denver shot 57 percent and Carmelo scored 32 points in his first game back from injury. How do you keep things remotely close when your opponent is scoring at will? Make 12 three-pointers.

Golden State 113, LA Lakers 130: No Boston-like letdown against the devoid-of-defense Warriors as Kobe scored 31 to lead six players in double figures.

Dallas 98, LA Clippers 76: No Dirk (suspension), but Josh Howard scored 29 points and the bench added 35 as the Mavs improved to 18-12, which is a better mark than Phoenix and Utah. The Paper Clips played with Zach Randolph and Chris Kaman, so they had to start Brian Skinner alongside Camby. That’s funny.

New Orleans 105, Indiana 103: Danny Granger carried the Pacers once again – 34 points – but David West hit a jumper in the waning seconds as the Hornets picked up the road win. Indy rookie Roy Hibbert has quietly slipped into the starting lineup and scored a career-high 19 points – the third time in five games he’s hit double figures.