(CNN Philippines) — LeBron James wore his signature headband for the first time in two months and led the Cleveland Cavaliers with 33 points, eight rebounds, and five assists as they evened up their National Basketball Association (NBA) Eastern Conference semifinal series at one apiece against the Chicago Bulls with a 106-91 victory on Thursday (May 7).
Kyrie Irving headed the rest of the supporting cast with 21 points of his own as the Cavs coped with the absence of Kevin Love and J.R. Smith, who are out with a shoulder injury and two-game suspension, respectively.
Jimmy Butler spearheaded the Bulls’ attack to score 18 points while Derrick Rose contributed 14 points and 10 assists.
Pau Gasol could not replicate his strong fist game showing as the Cavs’ defense limited him to only 11 points on the night.
Also read: Carroll leads Hawks to even series with Wizards
Meanwhile out in the Western Conference, James Harden and Dwight Howard put on a show as the Houston Rockets took Game 2 with a 115-109 win, leveling the series against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Harden lifted the Rockets with 32 points and seven assists, while Howard notched a double-double with 24 points and 16 rebounds.
The Los Angeles Clippers played again without starting point guard Chris Paul and relied heavily on Blake Griffin who totaled 34 points and 15 rebounds in the loss.
Also read: Grizzlies beat Warriors in Conley’s return
