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LeBron takes over late to lead Cavaliers over T-Wolves

Dec 18, 2008 - 4:11 AM MINNEAPOLIS (Ticker) -- Through the first three quarters Wednesday night, the outcome was in doubt. But LeBron James took care of that problem in a matter of minutes.

James scored 13 points in the first 4 1/2 minutes of the fourth quarter, turning a tight ballgame into a blowout as the Cleveland Cavaliers topped the Minnesota Timberwolves, 93-70.

The Cavs recovered from their loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday - which was their first since November 19, snapping an 11-game winning streak.

James finished with 32 points on 14-of-20 shooting, saving his best for last. Cleveland held a seven-point lead going into the final frame, but LeBron immediately took control, barreling inside for a short jumper, drawing contact and completing the three-point play.

A minute later, he knocked down a 17-footer, then added a layup and a 3-pointer to extend the Cavaliers' lead to 78-62, and the Timberwolves never threatened thereafter. James scored 17 in the fourth quarter overall.

Minnesota had trouble stopping more than just LeBron, as the Cavaliers shot 53 percent (40-of-75) for the game. Delonte West scored 21, Anderson Varejao had 13 and Wally Szczerbiak scored 10 against his former team.

Minnesota was led by Al Jefferson's 20 points and 11 rebounds - his 13th double-double of the season. Three other Timberwolves scored in double figures with Mike Miller, Kevin Ollie and Craig Smith scoring 14, 12 and 12, respectively.

The Timberwolves continued to struggle offensively, as they posted their lowest point total of the year and extended their losing streak to 11.

Cleveland has now won 20 of its last 22 games as it tries to keep pace with the Boston Celtics (24-2) in the Eastern Conference.