Daily NBA Fix 12-24-13: The Elite Rise

Indiana Pacers 103, BROOKLYN NETS 86

Dec 23, 2013; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Indiana Pacers small forward Paul George (24) controls the ball against the Brooklyn Nets during the fourth quarter of a game at Barclays Center. The Pacers defeated the Nets 103-86. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Lance and Paul Show – Lance Stephenson and Paul George put on a show, each scoring 26 points and combining for 13 rebounds, 10 assists and four steals in a win over the shorthanded Brooklyn Nets. The Pacers shot 45.8 percent from the floor as a team, but held the Nets to just 38.2 percent. Joe Johnson led the Nets with 18 points.

MIAMI HEAT 121, Atlanta Hawks 119 (OT)

Another Gear – Even without Dwyane Wade on the floor, it was clear that the best player in the world has another gear that nobody can touch. LeBron James scored 38 points with eight rebounds, six assists and two steals to lead the Heat back from a late deficit to overcome the upstart Hawks. Atlanta was led by Jeff Teague’s 26 points, six rebounds, eight assists and two steals.

Dallas Mavericks 111, HOUSTON ROCKETS 104

Dirk’s Still Got It – Anyone who thought Dirk Nowitzki was finished, think again. He scored 31 points with six rebounds and two blocks to lift the Mavericks to a solid road win over the Houston Rockets, who played without James Harden. Dwight Howard led the Rockets with 29 points, 15 rebounds and four assists, and even shot 9-for-13 from the free-throw line.