Browns coach Mike Pettine is focused only on winning the final three games and will pull out the stops in Seattle.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Mike Pettine has no plans to be sleepless in Seattle.

With nothing to lose vs. the surging Seahawks and no one giving the Browns a chance, he plans to pull out all the stops.

"We know that this is a formidable opponent in one of the most hostile environments in the league,'' he said. "We're going to go up there and cut it loose. We're going to have a great deal of respect for them, but we're not going to be intimidated by them. We're going to travel out there and play a good football game."

The Seahawks have won four straight games and six of their last seven. During the winning streak, quarterback Russell Wilson had the best four-game stretch of any quarterback with at least 100 pass attempts since 1960, according to ESPN.

In that span, he's thrown 16 touchdown passes and no interceptions, completing 89 of 118 passes for 1,171 yards for a 145.9 rating.

In his past four outings, he's thrown at least three TD passes, no interceptions and completed 70% of his attempts -- the only quarterback to accomplish the feat.

In each of his past three games, he's thrown at least four touchdown passes, including five during a 35-6 victory over the Ravens on Sunday.

Related: Johnny Manziel's teammates trust him even though critics say they shouldn't

But despite this brutal three-game stretch, Pettine isn't worried about his job security. It includes back-to-back road games in Seattle and Kansas City and a home date against Pittsburgh -- all 8-5 teams gunning for the playoffs.

"I don't get wrapped up in that,'' Pettine said. "I have more than enough on my plate. We're going to coach our tails off. We are going to go out and play with the same effort and focus that we played with yesterday and then some. However it falls out, it falls out. That is just not a concern. That can be debated and discussed outside of the building. We can't think like that. Our sole focus right now is recovering quickly from this game and moving onto the Seahawks."

 Brian Hartline surgery, Terrelle Pryor in line for more time

Pettine said Hartline, who broke his collarbone during Sunday's 24-10 loss to the 49ers and is out for the season, will likely undergo surgery on Tuesday. With Hartlline out, receiver Terrelle Pryor, who made his NFL debut at receiver Sunday, will get more playing time.

He played 16 snaps against the Niners and got open several times, but Johnny Manziel did not throw the ball his way.

 "He did his job,'' Pettine said of Pryor. "The big thing is he knew where to line up and he knew what his job was. He probably played more than maybe the original plan because of Brian's injury. He is a guy that has a skillset that hopefully we can take advantage of. Over these last three weeks, I look forward to the opportunity of him getting out there even more."

Pettine re-iterated that Hartline's injury is "a big loss for us.'' Over the past four games, he's averaged 7.5 catches and 85 yards. Sunday, he caught eight passes for 107 yards, his sixth career 100-yard game. For his effort, he received a game ball.
In other injury news, running back Glenn Winston is in the concussion protocol and Joe Haden has been placed on injured reserve with his concussion.

Related: Joe Haden on IR with concussion

Not on the clock

The victory moved the Browns into No. 2 in draft order behind the 3-10 Titans because of strength of schedule. The Chargers, who are also 3-10, are third. The three teams are tied for worst record in the NFL.

Run shift

Pettine said the running game -- which produced a season-high 230 yards on Sunday -- has evolved from an outside focus to inside. Power-back Isaiah Crowell led the way with 145 yards.

"(Sunday) was as good a blend of scheme that we've had all year,'' he said. "We ran some downhill runs where we got double-teams at the point of attack. We had some pull plays where were blocking down and kicking out. We ran a good amount of inside zone where I thought the backs had real good vision. We realized our fastball anymore is not the outside zone, and it has transitioned to more of a downhill-zone with some complementary gap-scheme runs."

 Cameron Erving struggled on field goal team

No. 19 pick Erving, benched at left guard in favor of Austin Pasztor, had a rough day on the field goal team, getting knocked on his backside on the 26-yard field goal and having the block occur between him and Danny Shelton again.

"That is one we will go week to week with it,'' said Pettine. "For the field goal part of it, Tabes (special teams coordinator Chris Tabor) will evaluate that each week and make any personnel changes as he sees fit. From an offensive standpoint, we made the decision to go with Austin.

"The couple of the games that Cam had, maybe his confidence was a little shook. We just felt that Austin is another young guy we wanted to see play. Fortunately for us, he stepped up to the plate and played well yesterday."

On rookie Nate Orchard's first two career sacks

"That is good to see,'' said Pettine. "Nate is a guy that just does everything that we ask, works hard, practices hard. It carries over to the game. Early on, he was just a little bit too mechanical. Get lined up, get your aiming point and go cut it loose. That was an example yesterday. He did a good job of trusting his technique and rolling off. We're all thrilled for the kid that he finally got some sack production."

 Taylor Gabriel was a healthy scratch

Pettine said Gabriel, who was cleared from the concussion protocol last week, could've played, but was inactive.

"He was really just kind of an insurance policy for Travis,'' he said. "We didn't think we would have Travis early in the week. It ended up just being a numbers game and giving him an extra week. With Hartline being down, we certainly anticipate Gabe being up this week."

See basketball, bowling and gymnastics highlights from Dec. 14, 2015.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Here are high school sports highlights from Monday. See below for information on how you team’s accomplishments can be recognized in these daily roundups.

Girls basketball

Buckeye 50, Valley Forge 36: Julia Kerlin and Ally Kugler scored 12 points each to lead the Patriots.

Cardinal 42, Grand Valley 40: Maggie Clark’s 13 points led the Huskies while Delaney Leichtman added 10 points.

Highland 51, Brunswick 26: Marlee Profitt scored 20 points and Madison Less added 11 to lead the Hornets. Gabbi Campbell paced the Blue Devils with 10.

Independence 46, West Geauga 44: Megan Kuczmarski scored 14 points while Julia Riley added 12 and Hallie Zumack 10. Hannah Brinning led all scorers with 16 for the Wolverines

Orange 52, Lincoln West 30: Casey Smith scored 10 points and Alexia Owens added nine for the Lions. Cheyanne Thorpes led all scorers with 12 points for the Wolverines.

Richmond Heights 68, Shaw 60: Deja Winters scored 49 points to lead the Spartans while Makea Scott added 11 points.

Whitney Young 44, Open Door 24: Alexius Brown’s 20 points led all scorers for Whitney Young. Liz Nejadfard scored 12 for Open Door.

Westlake 46, Cleveland Heights 17: Michelle Appel scored 13 points and Rebecca Essig added 10 for the Demons. Westlake stayed unbeaten at 8-0 as its defense held Cleveland Heights to one point in the third quarter.

Boys bowling

Brunswick 2,641, Brush 2,612: Tyler Radcliff rolled a 439 series while Brandon McClain added a 430 for the Blue Devils. Mike Taddeo’s 479 series led all scorers for the Arcs.

Mentor 2,723, Willoughby South 2,402: Mentor improved its record to 5-0. Kyle Fishleigh led the Cardinals with a high series of 471 followed by Tommy Markiewicz with a 436. South was led by Dean Vargo with a 471 series followed by Matt Bilek with a 403.

North Olmsted 2,261, North Ridgeville 2,210: Matthew Hull led the Eagles with a 433 series followed by Pedro Colon (398) and Joey Hardin (388).

Girls bowling

North Olmsted 2,246, North Ridgeville 1,797: Angela Gale’s 453 series led the Eagles while Nicole Clancy chipped in a 432. Valerie Stanley led the Rangers with a 397 series.

Gymnastics

Magnificat 132.75, Medina 128.95, Strongsville 119.2, Lakewood 117.75: Magnificat’s Emily Connor won the vault and beam while Medina’s Lauren Romano won the floor and finished first all-around. Julia Pompeani won the bars for Magnificat.

How your team can be included in these roundups

These roundups are based on box scores and game notes entered in cleveland.com’s database by school or team representatives. If your team is not participating in the box score program please contact your athletic director or coach and encourage them to do so. They can obtain instructions and database login information from High School Sports Manager Kristen Davis at kdavis@cleveland.com.

Ohio high school girls basketball statewide scores.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Here are Ohio high school girls basketball statewide scores for Monday, December 14, 2015.

Barnesville 67, Caldwell 36

Beavercreek 64, Clayton Northmont 43

Bethel-Tate 45, Williamsburg 42

Beverly Ft. Frye 58, Lore City Buckeye Trail 26

Bidwell River Valley 49, Athens 33

Bishop Donahue, W.Va. 67, Steubenville Cath. Cent. 50

Bridgeport 72, Shadyside 53

Cedarville 48, Day. Christian 30

Chillicothe 51, Cols. Walnut Ridge 40

Chillicothe Huntington 51, Mowrystown Whiteoak 38

Cin. Mercy 84, Cin. Colerain 21

Cle. Whitney Young 44, Elyria Open Door 24

Cols. Watterson 45, Cols. Ready 33

Convoy Crestview 65, Ft. Jennings 41

Crown City S. Gallia 53, Stewart Federal Hocking 44

Defiance 47, Continental 29

Delphos St. John's 54, Lima Shawnee 46

Eaton 49, New Paris National Trail 32

Fayetteville-Perry 94, Manchester 29

Findlay Liberty-Benton 54, Defiance Ayersville 32

Franklin Middletown Christian 46, Day. Northridge 23

Gallipolis Gallia 45, Coal Grove Dawson-Bryant 33

Glouster Trimble 61, Wahama, W.Va. 20

Goshen 45, New Richmond 22

Grove City Christian 52, Delaware Christian 47

Hamilton Ross 41, Middletown Fenwick 35

Hamler Patrick Henry 42, Defiance Tinora 29

Independence 46, Chesterland W. Geauga 44

Kansas Lakota 53, Fostoria 47

London 44, Grove City Cent. Crossing 40

Lynchburg-Clay 60, Sardinia Eastern Brown 34

McArthur Vinton County 56, Pomeroy Meigs 51

Medina Buckeye 50, Parma Hts. Valley Forge 36

Middlefield Cardinal 42, Orwell Grand Valley 40

Minford 57, Lucasville Valley 36

Morenci, Mich. 62, Monclova Christian 29

N. Lewisburg Triad 43, DeGraff Riverside 35

Nelsonville-York 66, Wellston 27

New Madison Tri-Village 60, Ansonia 31

Newark 58, Zanesville 26

Newton Falls 65, Warren Lordstown 29

Oak Hill 59, Portsmouth W. 50

Orange 52, Cle. Lincoln W. 30

Oxford Talawanda 36, Middletown Madison Senior 34

Poland Seminary 59, Jefferson Area 51

Portsmouth Clay 61, Latham Western 50

Portsmouth Notre Dame 61, Beaver Eastern 42

Proctorville Fairland 77, S. Point 35

Reedsville Eastern 57, Belpre 44

Richmond Hts. 68, E. Cle. Shaw 60

Seaman N. Adams 60, Leesburg Fairfield 30

Sherwood Fairview 55, Pioneer N. Central 37

Sidney 46, St. Marys Memorial 43

Steubenville 72, Brooke, W.Va. 27

Stryker 32, Wauseon 21

Sugar Grove Berne Union 86, Patriot Preparatory Academy 18

Swanton 59, Rossford 56

Thornville Sheridan 60, Newark Licking Valley 33

Tol. Cent. Cath. 66, Tol. St. Ursula 23

Tontogany Otsego 45, Holgate 42

Trotwood-Madison 45, Fairborn 20

Troy Christian 41, Pitsburg Franklin-Monroe 36

Ursuline Academy 56, Liberty Twp. Lakota E. 49

W. Lafayette Ridgewood 52, Dresden Tri-Valley 30

Wapakoneta 51, Lima Cent. Cath. 27

Washington C.H. 58, London Madison Plains 21

Waterford 69, Corning Miller 29

Weir, W.Va. 52, Richmond Edison 28

Wellsville 55, Oak Glen, W.Va. 45

Westlake 46, Cle. Hts. 17

Wheelersburg 74, Waverly 28

Willow Wood Symmes Valley 74, Portsmouth Sciotoville 57

Ohio high school boys basketball statewide scores.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Here are Ohio high school boys basketball statewide scores for Monday, December 14, 2015. 

Bellevue 64, Plymouth 43

Cin. Indian Hill 58, Cin. Hughes 40

Cols. Hartley 59, Fairfield Christian 50

Heath 73, Amanda-Clearcreek 31

Johnstown Northridge 80, Granville Christian 41

Marysville 62, Kenton 44

Millersport 85, Northside Christian 44

Montpelier 66, W. Unity Hilltop 57

New Riegel 59, Carey 57

Oregon Stritch 47, Tol. Maumee Valley 45

Patriot Preparatory Academy 54, Cols. International 46

Paulding 41, Miller City 32

Tol. Waite 96, Monclova Christian 30

Trotwood-Madison 78, Fairborn 72, OT

Urbana 52, Day. Ponitz Tech. 43

Mike Pettine needs a strong showing from Johnny Manziel in rugged stretch drive.

BEREA, Ohio - Mike Pettine probably knew this scenario would unfold from the night the Browns drafted Johnny Manziel 20 months ago.

The first-time head coach was like the dad of college-age daughters who bought a tidy beachfront condo only to see Charlie Sheen move in next door. It's been one worry after another even as Pettine's playboy quarterback has made undeniable on-field progress under his reconfigured coaching staff.

For much of their time together, Pettine has controlled the fate of Manziel. Now, as the coach makes a case to keep his job in the throes of a 3-10 season, the roles are reversed. He needs a player in whom he's never completely trusted to navigate a brutal stretch drive and convince ownership to stay the course for another year.

Master chef Michael Symon could not serve a dish of irony as delicious.

"I don't get wrapped up in that," Pettine said Monday when asked about his future with the club and how owner Jimmy Haslam wants to see end-of-season progress.

"I have more than enough on my plate. ... We are going to coach our tails off. We are going to go out and play with the same effort and focus that we played with (Sunday) and then some. However it falls out, it falls out."

Pettine took a positive first step with a 24-10 thumping of the inept Niners at FirstEnergy Stadium. It marked the Browns' most complete performance of the season, highlighted by Manziel's strong outing fresh from a two-game grounding for his dishonest depiction of a recent weekend escapade in Austin, Texas.

Johnny benched

The quarterback earned another shot in part because battered Josh McCown broke his clavicle against the Ravens and Austin Davis could not rally the team in a 37-3 loss to the Bengals. Circumstance enabled Pettine to go back to Manziel, who ended the team's seven-game losing Sunday.

The quarterback made plays inside and out of the pocket, building on momentum from his effort against the Steelers, which came before his latest Pettine-imposed timeout. Manziel, who's rarely been held accountable by anyone other than the Browns coach, wasn't thrilled with the punishment. He said last week he was "forced to learn a hard lesson."

His rebellious nature won't be curbed by Pettine or anybody else, but if the Browns can harness Manziel's swagger and continue the development a happy medium might - I say might - be reached. A more pressing concern, however, is what Manziel's play affords them over the final three weeks.

It's hard to imagine the Browns winning in Seattle (8-5) and Kansas City (8-5) or beating the Steelers (8-5) in the season finale, especially as injuries mount. All three opponents are playing well and fighting for playoff stakes.

A coach's longevity is intertwined with his quarterback's success. Nowhere is that more apparent than in Cleveland. Pettine needs Manziel to excel if the Browns have any chance in these games. If they get drubbed, the quarterback's future transgressions will be another coach's problem - here or elsewhere.

Safety Donte Whitner made a plea for ownership to retain Pettine and the coaching staff, blaming the poor record on the players. It's a nice gesture, but Pettine's job status is imperiled because his defense consistently underachieved.

Does anyone see the Browns harassing Russell Wilson and Ben Roethlisberger the way they did Blaine Gabbert? No, Pettine's best opportunity for survival hinges on Manziel and the offense. The quarterback doesn't have to run the table, but the Browns need a win or two with him playing at a high level. I don't see it happening, but if it does Pettine might be able to sell Haslam on the progress.

The owner understands the importance of continuity and if sees his beloved SEC quarterback thriving against top-flight and desperate opposition maybe he gives Pettine's staff - with some alterations -- one more year.

The coach praised Manziel's performance during a Monday conference call and defended the youngster from more outside criticism. He again lauded his preparation and work ethic, which were absent a year ago when the coach led the Browns to seven wins while dealing with myriad off-field brush fires.

Pettine's issues are rooted in Manziel's behavior away from the facility, but right now his focus is on a quality showing in Seattle.  

"We know that this is a formidable opponent in one of the most hostile environments in the league," Pettine said. "We're going to go up there and cut it loose."

The coach has nowhere else to turn. Brian Hoyer is in Houston. McCown's arm is in a sling.

In Johnny Manziel he trusts. Oh, the irony.

Two NBA scouts share their views on the top 10 players in the country and LSU's Ben Simmons tops the list ... for now.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The college basketball season is young but several players have already stood out as top players in the country.

Below is an early version of The Plain Dealer's Top 10 Players with quotes from one of two NBA scouts (East and West) interviewed.

Ben Simmons of LSU is clearly number one on everyone's board, but it is unfortunate many fans likely won't get a chance to see him in the NCAA Tournament because LSU is that bad.

So get your fill of Simmons before March.

1. Ben Simmons
School: LSU
Position: Forward
Class: Freshman
Ht/Wt: 6-10/230
Numbers: 19 points, 14.8 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game.
Scout's view: "Ben's a combination of LeBron James and Magic Johnson. There isn't anything he can't do. He is a franchise changer."

2. Kris Dunn
School: Providence
Position: Guard
Class: Junior
Ht/Wt: 6-4/220
Numbers: 16.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 6.9 assists per game.
Scout's view: "Plays on both ends of the floor. He reminds you of Gary Payton on the defensive end and Chris Paul on the offensive side of the floor."

3. Melo Trimble
School: Maryland
Position: Guard
Class: Sophomore
Ht/Wt: 6-3/185
Numbers: 15.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, 5.3 assists.
Scout's view: "Effective at either guard position but he'll play the point on the next level."

4. Jakob Poelti
School: Utah
Position: Forward
Class: Sophomore
Ht/Wt: 7-0/235
Numbers: 20.1 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.2 blocks per game.
Scout's view: "A big man with skill inside or outside of the paint."

5. Jaylen Brown
School: Cal
Position: Guard/Forward
Class: Freshman
Ht/Wt: 6-7/225
Numbers: 14.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.1 assists per game.  
Scout's view: "He's young but Jaylen already has a man's body. One of the best athletes in college basketball."

6. Brandon Ingram
School: Duke
Position: Forward
Class: Freshman
Ht/Wt: 6-9/195
Numbers: 13.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists per game.  
Scout's view: "The second-coming of Tracy McGrady ... Great shooter ... He needs to gain some weight."

7. Domantas Sabonis
School: Gonzaga
Position: Forward
Class: Sophomore
Ht/Wt: 6-10/240
Numbers: 15.4 points, 10.3 rebounds per game.   
Scout's view: "Like father (Arvydas Sabonis), like son with the exception that Domantas has some outside game."

8. Skal Labissiere
School: Kentucky
Position: Forward/Center
Class: Freshman
Ht/Wt: 6-11/225
Numbers: 10.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.1 blocks per game.
Scout's view: "Can score from anywhere on the floor. Solid defender and a vocal leader on the floor."

9. Ivan Rabb
School: Cal
Position: Forward
Class: Freshman
Ht/Wt: 6-10/220
Numbers: 12.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.0 blocks per game.   
Scout's view: "Despite a thin body he manages to get inside against bigger defenders. Can run the floor and has developed a hook shot."

10. Denzel Valentine
School: Michigan State
Position: Guard
Class: Senior
Ht/Wt: 6-5/220
Numbers: 18.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, 7.2 assists per game.
Scout's view: "Denzel's a typical Michigan State player - he's tough."

6-foot-2 senior mostly used as a receiver, Jones became a presence in the Eagles’ secondary by the middle of the regular season.

LAKEWOOD, Ohio – St. Edward is set to send two cornerbacks to Division I colleges for the second straight year.

That did not seem so likely a year ago, when the Eagles’ Shaun Crawford and David Dowell finished their recruitment. To Carl Jones, who committed Monday to Syracuse University, an opportunity presented itself.

St. Edward’s opening at cornerback opposite Tony Butler – the Eagles’ other Division I college prospect from this year’s state title team – ultimately belonged to Jones. A 6-foot-2 senior mostly used as a receiver, Jones became a presence in the Eagles’ secondary by the middle of the regular season. By the playoffs, colleges took notice.

Locals liked him as a receiver.

Bigger schools liked him at cornerback, which he will play at Syracuse.

“It’s a position that’s going to test you,” Jones said Tuesday after announcing his commitment on Twitter. “You have to have a next play mentality. I like that part of it because I’m a next play guy.”

Jones didn’t receive his first Division I college offer until last month’s playoff run, amid the Eagles’ 14-1 run to their second straight state title. Air Force first showed interest. Then, Army called.

A visit last weekend to Syracuse – while Butler visited Nebraska – swayed Jones’ decision. He roomed with Troy Henderson, a linebacker on last year’s St. Edward team.

“I wanted to pick a school where I could see myself there for four years, regardless of football,” Jones said. “I felt I could be there as a regular student.”

Henderson pressed him for an answer, but Jones told him to wait.

“I want to sleep on it,” he told his former teammate.

Henderson found out like most everyone else, as Jones typed in his decision with an attached picture Monday on Twitter. Henderson and Jones were friends in high school. They hung out with the same group, and will likely resume that bond next year.

As for a major, Jones said he is deciding between law and pre-med.

“I like that Syracuse doesn’t discourage athletes from taking them,” he said.

Jones just finished a law final Tuesday at St. Edward. Next up is a data and analytics final Thursday at the school. Before this football season, he calculated his chances of winning a starting defensive job were good.

He dabbled in the position at times before this season, but coach Tom Lombardo expected Jones to be a leading receiver. He finished with 28 catches for 475 yards and four touchdowns, including a go-ahead score in the Eagles’ regular-season win against New Jersey powerhouse Bergen Catholic. As St. Edward played a heavy out-of-state schedule, which included many spread and pass-heavy teams, Lombardo and defensive coordinator Pete Pappas found use for him as a corner.

“He just made a ton of big plays in the heat of the game,” Lombardo said. “We could count on him. He could threaten the defense vertically as a receiver. Then, he was covering their first or second (receiver).”

They used Jones on slot receivers, too.

Officially, he is the second St. Edward senior to commit to a Division I college. Running back Cole Gest is set to play at Indiana. Meanwhile, Butler is still mulling his options.

Jones credited Butler for helping his exposure. He had seven pass breakups in Week 10 against St. Ignatius, a stat that came with the rival Wildcats throwing away from Butler.

“After the Ignatius game, I became confident I’d be playing Division I ball somewhere,” Jones said.

He chose a Syracuse program that finished 4-8 this season and recently hired former Bowling Green coach Dino Babers. Jones said he likes the Ohio ties, but Bowling Green did not show interest.

“I like to say I’m raw,” Jones said. “I only played corner for seven months. I’m going to work my hardest to get better at corner.”

Assessing the Orange’s new corner, Lombardo said, “They’re getting a guy with a lot of upside.”

So once again, St. Edward is tasked with replacing two corners on their way to Division I colleges. That’s nothing new. The Eagles brought back only three defensive starters from their 2014 state title team.

“I think Coach Pappas is building something special on that side of the ball,” Jones said.

For more high school sports news, like NEOvarsity on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Contact high school sports reporter Matt Goul on Twitter (@mgoul) or email (mgoul@cleveland.com). Or log in and leave a message below in the comments section.

Get the latest updates and analysis on the Cleveland Cavaliers game against the Boston Celtics.

BOSTON -- The Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Boston Celtics, 89-77, extending their winning streak to three games.

LeBron James scored 24 points. Kevin Love added 20. Mo Williams chipped in with 10 off the bench. 

The Cavs (16-7) will return home for a showdown against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night. 

Scoring Summary:

End of 3rd Quarter - Cavs lead Celtics, 69-61. LeBron James has scored 20 points. Kevin Love has chipped in with 14 points. Timofey Mozgov has nine points on 4-of-5 shooting. The Celtics are led by Avery Bradley's 15 points while Isaiah Thomas has put in 12 points. 

End of 2nd Quarter - Cavs trail Celtics, 46-40. LeBron James leads the way with 14 points. Kevin Love has added 11. The Celtics are led by Jae Crowder's 11 points while Isaiah Thomas has chipped in with 10. 

End of 1st Quarter - Cavs trail Celtics, 25-23. Kevin Love, in his return to the TD Garden, has 11 points. LeBron James has added six. The Celtics are led by Avery Bradley's eight points. 

The Indians have put a high price on their starting pitchers. The price has proved to be too high for some teams, but the Indians are still engaged with several teams who want at least one of their starting pitchers.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - The high price that the Indians have placed on their starting pitchers has caused some teams to move on to different targets.

Anyone who wondered how the Indians might juggle second basemen Joe Panik and Jason Kipnis need not worry. Panik's San Francisco Giants are in the process of signing a multiyear deal with free agent right-hander Johnny Cueto. Earlier in the month they signed Jeff Samardzija, another free agent right-hander, to a five-year $90 million contract.

So the talks between the Indians and Giants concerning right-handers Danny Salazar and Carlos Carrasco are over.

The additions of Zack Greinke and Shelby Miller to Arizona's starting rotation ended the Tribe's conversations with the Diamondbacks. While a couple of doors have closed, however, many remain open in regards to teams interested in the Tribe's starting pitchers.

And the Indians have come to a realization of their own - if they're going to acquire a player good enough to make a difference to their struggling offense for 2016, they have to trade one of those starting pitchers. Now it is a question of can they get what they want. 

Here are some of the teams the Indians are dealing with:

The rebuilding Reds are still looking for a trading partner. Third baseman Todd Frazier and outfielder Jay Bruce are said to be available. There has even been some talk about second baseman Brandon Phillips being on the market. It almost certainly wouldn't happen, but how about Dat Dude returning to Cleveland?

The Cubs are still looking for a starting pitcher after signing John Lackey to a two-year, $36 million contract. The fact that they signed free agent outfielder Jason Heyward to an eight-year, $184 million deal along with utility man Ben Zobrist has created an excess among their already impressive roster of position players.

The Indians like several of those players, including outfielders Jorge Soler and Kyle Schwarber and infielder/outfielder Javier Baez.

The Rockies are reportedly listening to offers on outfielders Carlos Gonzalez, Charlie Blackmon and Corey Dickerson. Gonzalez, 30, has two years and $39 million left on his contract. Blackmon, 29, played 147 games in center this year. He's eligible for arbitration. Dickerson, 26, has just over two years in the big leagues.

The Houston Astros are also in the market for starting pitching.

The Cardinals need starting pitching as well. They couldn't keep Lackey and came up short on their bid for free agent David Price. Lance Lynn will be unavailable in 2016 because of Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.

The Miami Marlins are looking for help in the rotation. The Indians have been rumored to be interested in outfielder Marcell Ozuna since the middle of last season.

Do the Indians feel a sense of urgency to improve their offense? Yes, but that does not mean they're going trade Carrasco or Salazar for Frazier in a 1-for-1 deal. Frazier can be a free agent in two years. Carrasco, counting two club options, is under contract for five more years. The Indians control Salazar for five more years as well.

If that's the best the Indians can do, look for them to keep the rotation intact and turn their attention to free agency, where they've talked to several players including Rajai Davis, Shane Victorino and Steve Pearce.

The Indians could try to make a pure prospect deal for one of their starting pitchers, but their big-league offense needs too much help for that.

That's what makes the Cubs such an attractive fit. They've liked Soler, a right-handed hitter, since he defected from Cuba and signed with the Cubs in 2012. This past season Soler, 23, hit .262 (96-for-366) with 10 homers and 47 RBI in 101 games. He played 95 games in right field and has some holes defensively.

Baez, 23, played second, shortstop, third base and first base for the Cubs last season. He played just 28 games in the big leagues, but hit .289 (22-for-76). Baez, a right-handed hitter, batted .324 (91-for-281) with 13 homers, 61 RBI and 17 steals in 20 attempts at C lass AAA Iowa.

Schwarber, a left-handed hitter, made his debut against the Indians last season. He's a catcher by trade, but the Cubs tried to play him in left field with mixed results - especially in the postseason.

But there's nothing shaky about the way Schwarber, 22, hits. He clubbed 16 homers in 232 at-bats for the Cubs last season. He hit 16 more in the minors.

If the Indians do make a trade with the Cubs, don't be surprised if Lonnie Chisenhall is included. The Cubs have always liked him and Chisenhall's abiity to play solid outfield defense would help them.

http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2015/12/how_much_value_do_cleveland_in.html#incart_river_index

Finally: The Indians continue to scout the international market. Outfielder Hyun-soo Kim is the latest Korean free agent to draw interest from MLB clubs. Kim hits left-handed and is limited to playing left field so he probably isn't a fit for the Indians. Last season Kim hit .326 (167-for-512) with 28 homers and 121 RBI for the Doosan Bears.

East Tech players and boys basketball coach Brett Moore did not walk out of their home locker room Tuesday night like they just beat Glenville, 82-77.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – East Tech players and boys basketball coach Brett Moore did not walk out of their home locker room Tuesday night like they just beat Glenville, 82-77.

They did, but the Scarabs (6-0, 4-0) barely remained on top the Senate Athletic League standings.

Therein lies why Moore was so somber and his players weren’t much better.

“We’re beyond worrying about the Senate,” senior Carl Bigsby said.

“My vision is state,” said Moore, glancing to the ceiling in East Tech’s gym. “Glenville’s a great rivalry. It’s great to see all these people come out and support this rivalry, but at the end of the day I’m looking down the road to February. If we continue at this pace, we won’t make it out of January.”

Check back later for video highlights and reaction from this game.

The Tarblooders (3-2, 3-1) pushed Moore’s Scarabs, ranked sixth in the cleveland.com Top 25. They built a double-digit lead, which buoyed for much of the first half. They held a two-point lead in the final six minutes.

But Markell Johnson’s 44 points proved too much.

So did the 26 turnovers Glenville committed against Johnson, the defensive-minded Bigsby and Co.

The Scarabs closed on an 8-3 run to win, but Moore lamented the mental and physical mindset of his team.

“I just feel like a lot of the guys are just happy to put the uniform on,” he said. “We can’t continue at this pace.”

The coach is worried about the workload placed on Johnson, East Tech's leading who received college scholarship offers in the last week from North Carolina State and Cincinnati. A few times Tuesday, the physical play wore on the 6-foot-1 junior guard.

He spilled to the floor and slowly recovered from contact on a few plays. Johnson grabbed his stomach after finding sophomore teammate Tyshawn Howard for a go-ahead basket in the fourth quarter, but still finished the game. He also had nine rebounds and seven steals while finishing three points shy of his career record set two weeks ago.

“He’s been a little bit under the weather, but I need other guys to step up,” Moore said.

Howard can be one. The sophomore scored 12 points, all in the second half. Bigsby calls him their “sidekick.”

“Every game we’ve been in, he’s been there,” Bigsby said. “Our first game in Cincinnati, he had 12 I think.”

That sidekick was required to ward off a Glenville team that got 25 points from Christian Guess and double-doubles from Jerome Wright and Burdell Whiting. A perimeter threat, Wright contributed 13 points and 10 rebounds. Whiting had 17 points and 12 rebounds inside.

Five Glenville players grabbed at least six rebounds in the physical game, which grew heated in the second half.

Bigsby dislocated his shoulder in the fourth quarter. He left the gym in a hooded sweatshirt covering the ice packs wrapped around his shoulders.

“I got a bad shoulder,” he said. “I just gotta rebound. It popped out of place.”

For more high school sports news, like NEOvarsity on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Contact high school sports reporter Matt Goul on Twitter (@mgoul) or email (mgoul@cleveland.com). Or log in and leave a message below in the comments section.

Kevin Meehan and Braden Galaska each had 14 to lead Olmsted Falls past Berea-Midpark.

OLMSTED FALLS, Ohio — Olmsted Falls' boys basketball team held off Southwestern Conference rival Berea-Midpark late for a 54-53 win on Tuesday.

The win extended the Bulldogs (5-1, 5-0) win streak to five games.

Kevin Meehan and Braden Galaska each had 14 points to lead Olmsted Falls. Meehan added a team-high four rebounds for his team in the win.

"It's always good to get one against our rival," Meehan said. "It's a big one to get at home.

"To be tested early, it really gives us an idea of how to handle the end. A lot of guys stepped up at the end, hit some clutch free throws, made some clutch passes, clutch rebounds. And we just pulled out the win."

Complementing Meehan's work inside was the play of Galaska, the only freshman on the Bulldogs' varsity roster. He had three 3-pointers in the second quarter that helped get his team out to a 28-25 halftime lead.

"It makes us excited about his potential," Olmsted Falls coach Chris DeLisio said. "I think it speaks to his mentality the most that he's not afraid of that moment and not afraid to play in games like this."

Check back later for video highlights and reaction from this game.

The two teams played a back-and-forth game that was close from start to finish. The Titans had the ball down three with less than nine seconds left, but turned it over and the Bulldogs hit one more free throw to secure the win.

"I think that's probably the biggest thing is we've gelled here," DeLisio said of his team's five-game winning streak. "We have a long way to go, but I'm happy with how well we're playing together and sharing the basketball. On the defensive end, I think we're doing a pretty consistent job on most nights."

Berea-Midpark's Chad Elliott led all scorers with 21 points, and Brett Swinnerton added 16 for the Titans (3-3, 2-3).

With 10 players on the team who played on the JV team last season at Berea-Midpark, coach Duke Barther was pleased to see Elliott have a strong night. Elliott had a game-high five 3-pointers. Only one other Titan hit a shot from behind the arc.

"He's stepping up," Barther said. "He's making shots. He's got the ball in his hands a lot. But he's another one that is going to keep getting better."

Both teams play again on Friday against SWC opponents as the Bulldogs will try to extend their winning streak to six when they travel to Midview, and Berea-Midpark hosts Avon Lake.

LeBron James registered 24 points, seven rebounds, and three assists in Cleveland's 89-77 win over Boston Tuesday.

BOSTON - Historically speaking, the Celtics have very little luck when it comes to defending LeBron James.

So from that perspective, then, Boston could be happy with the 24 points James was limited to in the Cavaliers' 89-77 win on Tuesday night.

Entering the game, James was averaging 29.9 points in 39 career regular-season games against the C's - his highest average against any team.

And in his first 30 games at TD Garden, counting the regular season and playoffs, James was averaging 29.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists.

On Tuesday, James scored at least 24 points for the eighth consecutive game and contributed seven rebounds and three assists in 36 minutes. He was 10-of-20 from the field and 4-of-4 from the line.

"You try to achieve certain things in defending him and try to make it is as difficult as possible, said Boston coach Brad Stevens, whom James often praises. "A lot like Steph Curry the other night. I think you try to emphasize we have to do this as a community not as a single individual.

"And you gotta try your best to keep him out of the paint and limit transition opportunities. He's the very best in the world at that and has been for a long time."

Curry scored 38 against Boston on Friday in a double-overtime win for the Golden State Warriors, but shot 9-of-27 from the field.

If the C's plan was to keep James out of the lane, they failed. James' first nine field goals came from the paint, as he repeatedly blew past Jae Crowder and Even Turner on his way to the rim.

Punishing opponents inside is becoming more and more of a theme for James. In his 25-point outing against Orlando on Friday, all but one of his 10 field goals were from the paint.

"Just taking the approach that I didn't want to shoot too many jumpers tonight," James said. "I think I shot three or four, maybe, I was well balanced. I got to my 50 percent and I'm happy about that."

James was on the floor in the fourth quarter for all but the final 90 seconds, but he wasn't in a position to have to explode for points to save his team. What could have been a hyper-charged game for all involved - Cleveland's return to Boston following the Game 4 debacle in last season's first-round playoff series - passed with only some minor bumps and emotions in check.

In the second quarter, Crowder and James jawed at one another, with James making his point to his defender in between a pair of free throws.

Kevin Love (20 points), playing at TD Garden for the first time since Kelly Olynyk pulled his arm out of place in Game 4, kept his poise. He also delivered six points in the final quarter.

J.R. Smith on is he's giving Jae Crowder an apology: 'He can hold his breath for it.'

BOSTON - J.R. Smith made it known that he wasn't giving an apology to Jae Crowder before Tuesday night's game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics and he confirmed it afterwards.

"Yeah, he might want to wait on that. He can hold his breath for it, though," Smith said following the Cavaliers defeating the Celtics 89-77 at TD Garden. "I'll give it to him sooner or later."

Crowder said on Monday that he hope Smith apologizes for backhanding with a punch in Game 4 of the opening round series in the Eastern Conference playoffs. The blow caused Crowder to sprain his MCL and Smith was ejected from the game and served with a two-suspension.

In true Smith fashion, he didn't pull any punches -- no pun intended -- when asked why he's not going to patch things up with Crowder.

"Because it wasn't intentional like they're trying to make it seem," he said. "When you play chippy, chippy things are going to happen. It's fine. It is what it is. It's pretty ballsy though to ask for an apology from another man."

Tuesday's game came and went without an altercation. The two players rarely crossed each other's path. They did not communicate.

"Nah, I never talked to him before, so I wouldn't expect to talk to him now," Smith said.

Smith and Crowder weren't the only ones trying not to make friends.

Both teams refused to acknowledge each other before tip off. There were no fist bumps, handshakes, or hugs. They just stood at center court ignoring each other until the ball was tossed in the air.

"Well, it's whatever," LeBron James said of not acknowledging the Celtics. "We were out on the floor first. Whatever the game presents itself, we were ready for it."

The Cavaliers finished off the two-game road trip undefeated and won their third consecutive game. That was the goal Smith and the Cavaliers were focused on.

"I don't have to remind myself [to stay cool]," Smith said. "I know what's at hand. I know I don't want to hurt my teammates or my coaches. I don't even let that stuff bother me. At the end of the day, it's about getting a win and whatever happens other than that, I don't really care."

Ohio high school girls basketball statewide scores.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Here are Ohio high school girls basketball statewide scores for Tuesday, December 15, 2015.

Amanda-Clearcreek 62, Baltimore Liberty Union 56

Ashville Teays Valley 59, Lancaster Fairfield Union 28

Bellefontaine Benjamin Logan 71, Waynesfield-Goshen 46

Carey 73, New Washington Buckeye Cent. 44

Celina 51, St. Henry 34

Cin. Gamble Montessori 56, Miami Valley Christian Academy 54

Cin. Shroder 37, Cin. Taft 20

Circleville 48, Bloom-Carroll 27

Circleville Logan Elm 49, Cols. Hamilton Twp. 42

Cle. Hay 89, Cle. Lincoln W. 23

Cle. John Marshall 52, Cle. Whitney Young 23

Cols. Centennial 66, Cols. Linden McKinley 36

Cols. Independence 74, Cols. Marion-Franklin 17

Cols. Mifflin 45, Cols. East 16

Cols. Walnut Ridge 57, Cols. Briggs 44

Cols. Whetstone 74, Cols. International 13

Columbus Grove 51, Kalida 39

Covington 60, Newton Local 57

Delaware Buckeye Valley 50, Delaware Hayes 32

Edgerton 48, Bryan 37

Fostoria St. Wendelin 56, Bascom Hopewell-Loudon 34

Haviland Wayne Trace 55, Van Wert Lincolnview 38

Hilliard Bradley 45, Hilliard Darby 23

Johnstown-Monroe 40, Heath 37

Leipsic 61, Miller City 57

Marion Pleasant 38, Marion Elgin 17

McComb 65, Bloomdale Elmwood 38

McGuffey Upper Scioto Valley 65, Pandora-Gilboa 31

Montpelier 52, Paulding 33

Mt. Vernon 62, Bellville Clear Fork 25

Napoleon 55, Sylvania Southview 44

Norwalk 60, Huron 21

Oak Harbor 76, Sandusky St. Mary 40

Oregon Stritch 39, Northwood 31

Pataskala Licking Hts. 63, Pataskala Watkins Memorial 50

Pickerington N. 67, Groveport-Madison 27

Piqua 55, W. Carrollton 47

Ridgeway Ridgemont 43, Sidney Fairlawn 37

Sandusky Perkins 57, Norwalk St. Paul 40

Spring. Greenon 29, Spring. Cath. Cent. 25

Springboro 55, Kettering Fairmont 36

Sunbury Big Walnut 40, Centerburg 38

Tol. Ottawa Hills 58, Tiffin Calvert 40

Upper Sandusky 58, Bucyrus 54

Urbana 53, W. Liberty-Salem 36

Utica 64, Newark Cath. 59

Versailles 54, Lima Bath 47

W. Jefferson 52, Whitehall-Yearling 47

Waynesville 50, Camden Preble Shawnee 35

Wood County Christian, W.Va. 56, Licking County Christian 37

Ohio high school boys basketball statewide scores.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Here are Ohio high school boys basketball statewide scores for Tuesday, December 15, 2015.

Albany Alexander 54, Wellston 37

Antwerp 53, Stryker 33

Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh, Pa. 40, Jefferson County Christian 24

Athens 72, Bidwell River Valley 37

Augusta, Ky. 63, Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington 45

Avon 49, Lakewood 48

Barberton 54, Can. South 52

Batavia Clermont NE 65, Georgetown 57

Bay Village Bay 64, Rocky River 54

Bedford 65, Lyndhurst Brush 61

Blanchester 52, Bethel-Tate 47

Brecksville-Broadview Hts. 58, Medina Highland 38

Cadiz Harrison Cent. 62, Uhrichsville Claymont 45

Carlisle 72, Camden Preble Shawnee 55

Chesapeake 54, S. Point 35

Chillicothe 56, Washington C.H. Miami Trace 47

Chillicothe Unioto 93, Bainbridge Paint Valley 36

Cin. Anderson 62, Cin. Turpin 53

Cin. Elder 59, Cin. Purcell Marian 50

Cin. Oak Hills 51, Cin. Sycamore 42

Cin. Oyler 54, Cin. SCPA 24

Cle. E. Tech 82, Cle. Glenville 77

Cle. Hay 56, Cle. Lincoln W. 48

Cle. Rhodes 65, Cle. Collinwood 64

Cols. Centennial 71, Cols. Linden McKinley 62

Cols. Grandview Hts. 62, W. Jefferson 38

Cols. Marion-Franklin 66, Cols. Independence 56

Cols. Mifflin 78, Cols. East 75

Cols. Northland 101, Cols. Beechcroft 53

Cols. Ready 48, Cols. Franklin Hts. 40

Cols. South 45, Cols. Eastmoor 33

Cols. Walnut Ridge 63, Cols. Briggs 52

Cols. West 66, Cols. Africentric 60

Convoy Crestview 71, Ft. Jennings 51

Danville 78, Cardington-Lincoln 70

Day. Northridge 66, New Lebanon Dixie 58

Day. Oakwood 51, Brookville 49

Delphos Jefferson 70, Ottoville 37

Delphos St. John's 49, Continental 25

Eaton 58, Monroe 54

Edgerton 48, Swanton 38

Elyria Cath. 61, Parma 58

Fayetteville-Perry 65, Mowrystown Whiteoak 55

Frankfort Adena 58, Chillicothe Huntington 37

Franklin 55, Trenton Edgewood 51

Franklin Middletown Christian 45, New Paris National Trail 40

Ft. Loramie 49, Sidney Lehman 29

Ft. Recovery 54, Arcanum 44

Galloway Westland 64, Canal Winchester 57

Garfield Hts. 90, E. Cle. Shaw 38

Gates Mills Gilmour 63, Aurora 54

Gates Mills Hawken 44, Cuyahoga Hts. 40

Glouster Trimble 74, Corning Miller 68

Grafton Midview 53, Westlake 47

Greenfield McClain 60, Lees Creek E. Clinton 57

Grove City Christian 63, Baltimore Liberty Union 56

Groveport-Madison 69, Hilliard Darby 35

Hamilton 76, Cin. Colerain 39

Holland Springfield 46, Findlay 39

Houston 53, Ansonia 42

Independence 53, Middlefield Cardinal 38

Lancaster 45, Logan 42, OT

Latham Western 65, Manchester 56

Lewis Center Olentangy Orange 60, Marion Harding 51

Lewistown Indian Lake 63, DeGraff Riverside 35

Liberty Twp. Lakota E. 55, Middletown 39

Lima Sr. 103, Fremont Ross 57

Lorain Clearview 70, Garfield Hts. Trinity 51

Loveland 59, Cin. Glen Este 38

Lynchburg-Clay 69, Sardinia Eastern Brown 47

Martins Ferry 77, Barnesville 59

Mason 70, Cin. Princeton 42

McArthur Vinton County 75, Nelsonville-York 42

Metamora Evergreen 56, Oregon Stritch 45

Middletown Madison Senior 48, Milton-Union 36

Milford Center Fairbanks 63, Mechanicsburg 50

Minford 70, Franklin Furnace Green 48

Morrow Little Miami 60, Oxford Talawanda 56

N. Olmsted 79, N. Ridgeville 71

N. Royalton 63, Strongsville 58

New Knoxville 51, Botkins 44

Newton Local 57, Covington 39

Orange 59, Geneva 34

Parkersburg South, W.Va. 85, Cambridge 56

Parma Normandy 63, Parma Hts. Valley Forge 32

Parma Padua 81, Parma Hts. Holy Name 52

Peebles 73, W. Union 37

Pemberville Eastwood 64, Elmore Woodmore 23

Piqua 67, W. Carrollton 38

Pomeroy Meigs 47, Jackson 44

Portsmouth 74, Coal Grove Dawson-Bryant 59

Proctorville Fairland 45, Ironton 38

Rocky River Lutheran W. 57, Fairview 48

S. Charleston SE 66, Spring. Kenton Ridge 56

S. Webster 61, New Boston Glenwood 45

Seaman N. Adams 56, Leesburg Fairfield 51

Shekinah Christian 62, Lancaster Fisher Cath. 55

Sherwood Fairview 60, Pioneer N. Central 41

Sidney 63, Wapakoneta 54

Southeastern 51, Piketon 46

Springboro 83, Kettering Fairmont 78

Springfield 81, New Carlisle Tecumseh 42

Stewart Federal Hocking 73, Belpre 63

Streetsboro 72, Akr. Coventry 63

Sunbury Big Walnut 53, Sparta Highland 46

Tipp City Bethel 64, Jamestown Greeneview 52

Tontogany Otsego 57, Millbury Lake 30

Trotwood-Madison 74, Clayton Northmont 64

Vincent Warren 64, Marietta 52

W. Chester Lakota W. 69, Fairfield 59

Wahama, W.Va. 40, Racine Southern 38

Washington C.H. 60, Hillsboro 55

Waterford 65, Crown City S. Gallia 59

Wheelersburg 79, Portsmouth W. 38

Wheeling Central, W.Va. 68, Shadyside 38

Wickliffe 63, Chesterland W. Geauga 53

Willard 64, Port Clinton 57

Williamsburg 61, Felicity-Franklin 39

Williamsport Westfall 68, Chillicothe Zane Trace 51

Wilmington 101, Clarksville Clinton-Massie 27

Xenia 91, St. Paris Graham 50

Pickerington Cent. 85, Zanesville 41

LeBron James, Kevin Love and Timofey Mozgov were among the standouts as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Boston Celtics, 89-77, Tuesday night in Boston.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- LeBron James scored 24 and Kevin Love had 20 points, eight rebounds and five assists as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Boston Celtics, 89-77, Tuesday night at TD Garden in Boston. Cavs center Timofey Mozgov had nine points and 10 rebounds and protected the rim numerous times.

Heating up again: The Cavs (16-7) have won three in a row.

Cooled: The Celtics (14-11) had won seven of 10, with losses at San Antonio and home against Golden State in two overtimes.

Heavy dose of humility: The Celtics, their fans and the Boston media have been puffing chests and slapping fives over the storied franchise's most recent edition. The Celtics made sure everybody knew how great they felt entering Tuesday's game, their first crack at the Cavs since being swept in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs last season.

Oh, well.

In the final minutes of the fourth quarter, Fox Sports Ohio analyst Austin Carr said: "I don't like to be too forward, but all the things I've read from yesterday to today about this team, the Celtics....They were trying to talk their way to the top, not doing it on the floor. The Cavs have shown them that they are not quite ready to get there.''

The talking continued during the game -- notably, Jae Crowder to LeBron. In the end, though, the James Gang had too much talent and brought out the silencers.

At the final horn, Fox Sports Ohio play-by-play voice Fred McLeod said: "A wine-and-gold winner. Good night, Boston. No apologies necessary.''

Locking them down: The Cavs outscored the Celtics, 49-31, in the second half (29-15 in the third quarter, 20-16 in the fourth).

The Celtics shot 11-of-42 from the field in the half. Yes, they missed open looks, but much of their struggle was traceable to Cleveland's swarming defense. The Cavs repeatedly fought through screens and took away Boston's first option.  

Celtics guards Isaiah Thomas and Avery Bradley, in particular, had issues in the early stages of the third. Thomas was unable to shake Matthew Dellavedova and Bradley was checked primarily by J.R. Smith.

When Thomas did manage to dribble-penetrate, he changed shots and plans because of Mozgov and Love.

The Cavs outscored Boston, 17-4, in the opening seven-plus minutes of the third to take control.

Cavs reserve guard Mo Williams capped the quarter in style. After Bradley made two free throws, Williams received the inbounds from Love with 4.9 seconds remaining. Williams used a screen by Richard Jefferson and Tristan Thompson on Bradley near midcourt on the left, then sped in for a layup as time expired.

Love in the air: The Celtics used a 6-0 run to pull within 79-72 with 6:18 remaining in the fourth. On the ensuing possession, Dellavedova called for Love to isolate against Kelly Olynyk on the left side. Dellavedova passed to Love and cleared out.

Love received the ball with his back to Olynyk and immediately faced up. Love dribbled lefty toward the baseline, turned toward the middle, shot-faked to lose Olynyk, ducked back under and scored on a short bank shot.

Simple as that.

Love schooled Olynyk so badly that Olynyk had no opportunity to grab one of Love's shoulders and rip it out of the socket.

Olynyk was rattled enough that, moments later, he missed a jumper. Love rebounded.

As LeBron dribbled into the forecourt on the right, Carr said: "I'd go right back to (Love) in the low post.''

LeBron, noticing that the Celtics were confused as to who should cover Love on the perimeter, made a lefty scoop-pass to him.

McLeod said: "How about out high?''

Love drilled the topside 3-pointer.

McLeod said: "How about for three? Just like you called it!''

Carr said: "Well, I guess I'd go to him at the 3-point line!''

McLeod said: "Hindsight is a beautiful thing, isn't it?''

Carr, laughing heartily, said: "It sure is.''

Cavs, 84-72. Ball game.

Hard hats and shoulder pads required: When the Celtics play, especially in their house, basketball can morph into any combination of football, rugby and wrestling. Celtics players love to mix it up as much as possible. Tuesday was no different.

The Cavs matched the physicality in the first half, but they didn't do what they do best -- play pure basketball.

They accomplished both in the second half.

Yawn: LeBron played well at both ends and posted a +17 in 36 minutes. He got the better of Crowder, again.

Crowder pushed and shoved the King, and talked plenty of junk, but it couldn't save him from falling to 1-9 in head-to-head meetings, including playoffs.

Because he can: With 6:25 left in the third, LeBron delivered the Cavs' post-up of the season. After darting into the paint, he flipped the hips and sealed/overpowered Crowder in a blink, thereby putting himself in prime position to receive Love's entry. King's layup gave the Cavs a 52-50 lead.

Yet again, LeBron showed why he is the NBA's most complete player. And to think: Post-ups essentially are a hobby for him.

Wizard of Moz: Mozgov, who was 4-of-5 from the field, authored his second straight high-impact performance. No revelation here: The Cavs are that much better when Mozgov is playing with energy, scoring here and there, and bothering opposing guards at the other rim.

His Hairness channels LBJ: The move of the night belonged to....Cavs reserve big Anderson Varejao.

Early in the second quarter, Varejao received a pass from Williams at the top of the key. Varejao faked a pass back to Williams, drove the left side of the key, spun on Olynyk and made a layup.

The Brazilian show-and-go gave the Cavs a 28-25 lead.

Iman Shumpert hurt his groin in Tuesday's win over Boston and could miss a game.

BOSTON - Cleveland Cavaliers guard Iman Shumpert, fresh off of returning from a wrist injury, left the game in the fourth quarter of Tuesday's 89-77 win over the Boston Celtics with a right groin injury and would not return.

He will be evaluated further in Cleveland on Wednesday. Shumpert just made his season debut in the team's last game on Friday at Orlando.

"Honestly a little concerned," head coach David Blatt said of Shumpert's latest injury. "I got to be honest with you. I have no idea what the extent is. Just given our recent history, I'm concerned."

The good news is the Cavaliers believe overall Shumpert is fine. However, they anticipate him missing the first game on the upcoming three-game homestand with the Oklahoma City Thunder up on Thursday.

The defensive specialist was visibly frustrated after the game and refused to speak with reporters.

After getting his right leg wrapped, he sat at his locker stall quietly with a towel around his waist staring at the ground. He worked feverishly to get himself back on the court and now this. He could undergo an MRI if the training staff feels it's necessary.

In the grand scheme of things, it sounds like a minor hitch. But for Shumpert, who has been rehabilitating for much of the season, it might appear bigger than what it really is.

See basketball and bowling highlights from Tuesday.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Here are high school sports highlights from Monday. See below for information on how your team’s accomplishments can be recognized in these daily roundups.

See game stories by Tim Bielik covering Southwestern Conference opponents Berea-Midpark and Olmsted Falls, and Matt Goul at the Senate Athletic League matchup between East Tech and Glenville.

Boys Bowling

Brunswick 2563, Willoughby South 2147: Brandon McClain finished with the highest series of 473. South was led by Dean Vargo with 392.

Springfield 2637, Ravenna 2026: Zak Williams had the highest series with 424 to lead all bowlers. Kevin Stoffer’s score of 327 led Ravenna.

Girls Bowling

Mayfield 1319, Eastlake North 1069: Lizzie Hummer’s score of 285 helped lead the Wildcats to a close victory. Nichole Reed paced Eastlake North with a team high 207.

Boys Basketball

No, 1 Garfield Heights 90, Shaw 38: Frankie Hughes’ 27 points coupled with Willie Jackson’s 15 helped the Bulldogs extend their win streak to six. Shaw was led by Alex Mecalf with 14. STVM is ranked No. 1 in the cleveland.com Top 25.

No, 2 STVM 61, Youngstown Ursuline 42: Jayvon Graves and Henry Baddley’s 16 points helped lead the Irish to a home win against the visitors from Ursuline.

No, 8 Medina 78, Wadsworth 46: Luke Schaefer led all scorers with 24 points in Medina’s home win against Wadsworth. Reid Black led the Grizzles with 11.

Avon 52, Lakewood 48: Justin Ladegaard scored 11 points and anchored the defense with six steals and seven rebounds to help lead the Eagles to a win against Southwestern Conference opponent Lakewood. Avon survived for a 52-48 victory behind late fourth quarter shooting from Ben Yurkovich who finished with four 3-pointers and 18 total points. Avon held on to a lead despite a late charge by Lakewood with Logan Swift's eight of 16 total points in the fourth quarter.

Barberton 54, Bay 52: Jeff Woolridge’s 18 points coupled with Buzz Walker’s 14 and Zane Ries’ 11 helped lead Barberton to a 54-52 victory at home. Jake Daniska led Canton South with 15.

Bay 64, Rocky River 54: Erik Painter scored 18 points followed by John Koz with 17 to give Bay a road win against Great Lakes Conference foe Rocky River. Noah Steele and Eric Jones each scored 15 for Rocky River.

Bedford 65, Brush 61: Tre Granger scored 16 points to help lead the Bearcats to a win against host team Brush. Rob Bearden of Brush had the hot hand leading all scorers with 21.

Brecksville 58, Highland 38: Dan Auble dropped 17 points followed by Andrew Bruno with 15 to help lead the Bees to a victory at home. Issac Matesin finished with 11 for Highland.

Clearview 70, Trinity 51: Antonio Bennett’s 12 points helped lifted the Clippers extend its win streak to five. Brevin Dye led Trinity with 16.

Elyria Catholic 61, Parma 58: Jake Kuchta’s 16 points helped lead the Cougars to a close finish against Great Lakes Conference opponent Parma on the road. Parma’s Nicasio Agosto led all scorers with 25.

Lutheran East 57, Fairview 48: Tommy Walker dropped 19 points followed by Sean Voiers with 16 to help lead the Falcons to a victory at home. Fairview’s Jared Butler had a game-high 30 points.

Hawken 44, Cuyahoga Heights: Brendan Paul’s 18 points helped lead the Hawks to a close win against Chagrin Valley Conference opponent Cuyahoga Heights. Brett Lowther led the Skins with 16.

Independence 53, Cardinal 38: Ryan Dworznik scored 23 points to help give the Blue Devils a home victory against the Huskies. Matt Terrano chipped in with 10.

John Hay 56, Lincoln West 48: Anthony Donerson, Milan Early and Chauncey Sanders each scored 11 points to help lead the Hornets to a victory against Senate Athletic League foe Lincoln West. Andre Smith led the Wolverines with 18.

Midview 53, Westlake 47: Daimion Mahone’s 12 points helped give the Middies another victory in the Southwestern Conference. Andris Balodis led Westlake with 14.

Girls Basketball

No, 5 East Tech 72, Glenville 35: Morgan Daniel scored 22 points to help lead the Scarabs pick up another Senate Athletic League win. Daniel’s 22 points helped lead her to scoring her 1,000^th career-point. Lawren Nelson led Glenville with 20. East Tech is ranked No. 5 in the cleveland.com Top 25.

John Hay 89, Lincoln West 23: Angel Cannon’s 17 points helped lead the Hornets to win on the road against Lincoln West. Five players from John Hay scored in double figures while Alexus Goss led Lincoln West with nine.

John Marshall 52, Whitney Young 23: Marisela Santos scored 20 points to help lead the Lawyers against Senate Athletic League opponent Whitney Young. Angelica Riddle-Lash led Whitney Young with nine.

Perry 53, Chagrin Falls 40: Claire Dolan scored 13 of her 17 total points in the third quarter to help the Pirates pick up a win in the Chagrin Valley Conference. Martha Clark chipped in with 12 points and four offensive rebounds to help cement the win.

How your team can be included in these roundups

These roundups are based on box scores and game notes entered in cleveland.com’s database by school or team representatives. If your team is not participating in the box score program please contact your athletic director or coach and encourage them to do so. They can obtain instructions and database login information from High School Sports Manager Kristen Davis at kdavis@cleveland.com.

LeBron James quickly formed a bond with a Boston-area boy who is thriving despite suffering from brain damage.

BOSTON - LeBron James and 16-year-old boy Aaron Miller hadn't previously met, but they already had a bond.

That bond grew exponentially during and immediately after the Cavaliers' 89-77 win over the Boston Celtics Tuesday night.

Miller, of Newton, Mass., is thriving now despite being born with severe brain damage that doctors said would paralyze him. He was honored by the home-team Celtics during a timeout in the second quarter for being named MVP of a Boston-area basketball tournament apparently associated with the Special Olympics.

At the conclusion of the timeout, James ran out of the Cavs' huddle and over to the boy, grabbing him first on the hand and then around the head with affection as Miller smiled and responded in obvious astonishment and adoration.

Consider the bigger picture for a moment. This was the first Cavs-Boston game since all hell broke loose in Game 4 of a first-round playoff series at TD Garden last season.

It was to be filled with more tension, animosity, and physicality than your average NBA regular-season game in December, to say nothing of the possibility of an altercation.

There were no fights. Instead, after James had put the finishing touches on his 24-point, seven-rebound performance, he handed Miller the pair of his signature line Nike shoes he wore on the court.

Now, for the twist: Miller was already wearing a special version of James' shoe line designed for customers with special needs that was released in July.

"I wasn't able to hear the whole story because I was actually in the game and coach was drawing up a play," James said, explaining how he first noticed Miller. "But I looked up at the Jumbotron and I seen what he's been through and where he is now. I think the doctor said he would never walk again, talk again, or something like that. I looked up there and I just, right from there. This game is so much more than just basketball."

And then, James mentioned, he noticed Miller was wearing James' shoes.

The shoe, the LeBron Soldier 8 FLYLEASE is manufactured with a single strap across the top, designed for customers who cannot tie shoes because of a physical disability.

James said Tuesday night he "designed those shoes for kids with conditions where they not able to put their own."

A Nike news release credits designer Tobie Hatfield, who worked with a teenage boy born with Cerebral Palsy to design the shoe with James.

According to the Celtics' public relations department, Miller was born with "severe brain damage that doctors said would physically and mentally paralyze him for life." Miller, who according to the Celtics, "endured thousands of hours of surgery and physical therapy," plays basketball and golf at a Boston-area high school.

Now, he has two pairs of James' signature shoes.

"When I saw that, when I saw his story, it was just like, I don't know, I felt like I was a part of him," James said. "I was just showing him my respect and gave him my shoes. And it was well received by him. It wasn't, it's not for you guys, it's not for the fans. It was for him."

James hosted several suffering children at The Q last summer in conjunction with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

There was plenty of chatter leading up to the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, a rematch of the first-round playoff series that turned physical last season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- There was plenty of chatter leading up to the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, a rematch of the first-round playoff series that turned physical last season.

The bad blood and trash-talk between the two teams carried over and the matchup followed April's script. But there weren't any on-court altercations and, most importantly, Kevin Love didn't leave the TD Garden with an injury.

In his first game back at the Garden since having his shoulder dislocated by Boston's Kelly Olynyk -- who Love didn't speak to during the game -- Love scored 11 of his 20 points in the first quarter and helped stymie any possible Boston comeback attempt.

Once the Celtics got the lead to seven, Love scored five points, including an open three-pointer to push the lead back to double digits with less than six minutes remaining.

The 89-77 win doesn't erase the horrible memories from last year, as Love's first postseason appearance ended early. But it was another strong performance against a quality team that had been playing with confidence and talking tough in recent days. The only bad news is Iman Shumpert's groin injury, which is expected to keep him out of Thursday's showdown against Oklahoma City. 

Here are five observations from the win:

Third quarter turnaround - The Cavaliers emerged from the locker room, staring at six-point deficit, 46-40.

In the first 24 minutes, the offense was sloppy, becoming stagnant and turning the ball over at a rapid rate (nine miscues). The defense was good, holding the Celtics to 17-of-45 (37.8 percent) from the field, but still managed to surrender 46 points.

After a slow third quarter start for both teams, the Cavs turned things around, going on a 17-2 run to take a 10-point lead late in the period.

The ball began to move on offense and balanced scoring followed, as six players made at least one field goal in the third quarter. Following a first half with just five assists on 16 made shots, the Cavs dished out eight helpers on 12 made baskets, a percentage that is much closer to the norm.

It led to a 29-point outburst on 12-of-22 (54.5 percent) shooting.

It wasn't just the offense at the center of the reversal. The Cavs' defense suffocated the Celtics, forcing Boston out of its usual comfort zone. The Celtics were held to 15 points on 5-of-22 (22.7 percent) shooting, including 1-of-11 (9.1 percent) from beyond the arc.

Following 12 terrific minutes, the Cavs won the third quarter, 29-15, quieting the TD Garden crowd.

That success carried over into the final period. The Celtics entered the night averaging 103.7 points, sixth in the NBA, but finished with a season-low 77 points, including 31 in the second half. 

Wine and Gold paint job - The Celtics don't have much of an interior presence on the defensive end of the floor. Jared Sullinger is an undersized forward masquerading as a center who has never been known for his defensive prowess. Amir Johnson, Kelly Olynyk and David Lee won't win any defensive awards either.

Boston entered the night allowing a little more than 40 points per game in the paint.

The Cavaliers saw the weakness during the four-game sweep in the playoffs last season. They attacked it once again Tuesday.

Cleveland scored 44 points in the paint, outscoring Boston by 20 in that category.

James helped set the tone, attacking defenders off the dribble and working in the post. Nine of his 10 made shots came in the paint.

Love also had success, making 4-of-6 inside the paint, as he posted up smaller defenders en route to his 20-point night.

Even Timofey Mozgov carried over his stellar play from Friday night against the Orlando Magic. Mozgov scored nine points on 4-of-5 shooting against Boston, giving him 26 points in the last two contests, his most in a two-game stretch this season. Mozgov also grabbed a season-high 10 rebounds.

Head of the snake - The Celtics' starting backcourt, Avery Bradley and Isaiah Thomas, are one-two on the team in scoring. Underrated and often overlooked, the young, quick duo helped Boston enter the night with the ninth-highest scoring backcourt in the NBA, averaging 46.6 points per game.

Aggressive from the opening tip, Bradley did his part, scoring 17 points on 5-of-12 shooting.

But Thomas might have nightmares of the Cavs' defense.

Being hounded on the perimeter and guarded by a variety of different players, Thomas finished with a season-low 12 points, about nine below his season average. He shot a ghastly 3-of-15 (20 percent) from the field, his worst shooting percentage of the year.

Even the times when Thomas created space and blew by the initial defender, Mozgov, Tristan Thompson and Love awaited, contesting his shots.

In the last five games, including the postseason against the Cavs, Thomas is averaging 16.4 points on 21-of-69 (30.4 percent) from the field, including 3-of-20 (15 percent) from three-point range.

It's clear the Cavs have made slowing Thomas down one of the top priorities.

Screeching halt - The Celtics, lacking elite talent, have used other methods to become one of the league's best offenses. Behind head coach Brad Stevens, they run quality sets, which are predicated on sharp ball movement and cutting.

They also push the pace, trying to get easy baskets in transition instead of having to operate in the halfcourt where they lack consistent three-point shooting and players capable of breaking down defenses in one-on-one situations.

The Celtics entered the night eighth in fast break points, averaging 14.2. But couldn't get enough easy baskets on Tuesday.

The Cavs shot 46 percent, making the Celtics repeatedly take the ball out of the basket. That slowed the pace. Even the 16 turnovers only turned into 11 points. On the night, Boston has nine fast break points and just three in the second half.

Closing time - The Cavs' third quarter rout was even more important given their success in the fourth quarter this season.

Averaging 25.3 points on offense and picking up the defensive intensity late, the Cavs have a scoring differential of 2.8 in the final quarter, which is best in the NBA. Last year, they ranked 14th in the category.

With the win against Boston, the Cavs improved their record to 13-1 when taking a lead into the fourth quarter this season. 

Much of their late-game success has centered on the defensive end, holding opponents to 22.5 points on 40 percent shooting in the final 12 minutes. The Cavs held Boston to 16 points on 6-of-20 (30 percent) from the field Tuesday night.