Paul Millsap scored 10 of 26 points in the final five minutes, Jeff Teague added 23, and the duo combined for Atlanta’s final 16 on Tuesday, as the soaring Hawks held off the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers – playing without Lebron James – for a 109-101 victory.
“King” James celebrated his 30th birthday but watched the game from the bench in street clothes because of left knee soreness.
Kyle Korver buried five triples en route to 19 points while German-native Dennis Schoder netted 12 off the bench for South-eastern Division-leading Atlanta (23-8), winners in 18 of its last 21 contests.
Kyrie Irving led Cleveland (18-14) with 35 points and nine assists after missing the previous two games because of left knee bone bruise.
Tristan Thompson finished with 18 and 13 rebounds for the Cavs, who lost star forward Kevin Love to back spasms in the second half.
