James, Ilgauskas set records

Published 5:21 am Wednesday, December 10, 2008

LeBron James and Zydrunas Ilgauskas made more history together Tuesday night.

Cleveland’s superstar forward became the franchise’s career leader in steals while Ilgauskas, the Cavaliers’ beloved big man, moved to the top of the team’s rebounding chart.

By swiping a Toronto pass in the opening minute, James eclipsed Mark Price’s steals record. Price set the previous standard of 734 steals in 582 career games for Cleveland from 1986-95. James, already the Cavaliers’ all-time leading scorer, has played in just 412 games since turning pro in 2003.

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During a timeout, James’ record was announced and Cleveland’s crowd rose and gave a standing ovation for the Olympic gold medalist, who raised his arms overhead in return.

Ilgauskas, who has overcome numerous injuries to both feet during 11 seasons in the league, overtook Brad Daugherty (5,227) as the Cavs’ top rebounder in the second quarter.

On a missed 3-pointer by Jason Kapono, both Ilgauskas and James were in perfect position to grab the ball. But when James realized Ilgauskas was next to him, he pulled his hands away so the man they call ‘‘Z’’ could bend down and pick the ball off the floor.