Daily NBA Recap - Running the Point 1.16.08

LeBron James (CLE) was the NBA Vine's player of the night for January 15, 2008. James erupted for 51 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists to lead the Cavaliers to a 132-124 overtime victory over the struggling Memphis Grizzlies. James is averaging 34.8 points over his last five games. Cleveland improves to 20-18, while Memphis falls to 10-28.

According to numerous sources, Shaquille O'Neal (MIA) is slated to return to the Miami Heat's lineup on Wednesday against the Bulls. Denver Nuggets power forward Nene had a tumor removed and a biopsy is being performed to see if the mass is cancerous. The Nuggets are really thin at the power forward spot with Kenyon Martin battling injuries and Nene facing an extended absence. There are options available in the paint such as Chris Webber or P.J. Brown - but the Los Angeles Lakers who are battling injuries of their own with Andrew Bynum expected to miss two months, may also be potential suitors.

The word out of New York is that Stephon Marbury's season may be over due to chronic bone spurs in his ankle. The New York Knicks, who beat the Washington Wizards Tuesday night are on a two game winning streak by also defeating the Detroit Pistons. Coach Isiah Thomas' job may still be in jeopardy but to his credit, the team seems to be better prepared and motivated over the past week.

Chris Bosh (TOR) and Kobe Bryant (LAL) won the NBA player of the week for their respective conferences. LeBron James (CLE) may be the frontrunner for next's weeks hardware if his current torrid streak continues.

Wizards guard Antonio Daniels missed Tuesday's game against the Knicks, nursing his injured knee. Richard Hamilton (DET) scored 39 points in Tuesday's win over the Toronto Raptors. His teammate Tayshaun Prince (DET) is 3-for-18 from the floor in the last two games, averaging 3 points.