James’ Heat cruise past Kings

MIAMI – The Miami Heat jump-started their second half of the season with a 117-97 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday at American Airlines Arena.

LeBron James, who led the Eastern Conference in scoring in Sunday’s all-star game, scored 21 of his 31 points in the first half for the Heat who have won 11 of their last 12 National Basketball Association games.

James got help from his fellow stars as Dwyane Wade finished with 23 points and Chris Bosh had 22 as the Heat extended their home winning streak to six games.

Mario Chalmers added 14 for Miami, who jumped out to a 35-16 lead after the opening quarter. The Heat never trailed in the game.

Samuel Dalembert had 18 points and 13 rebounds off the bench for Sacramento. Jason Thompson and Jermaine Taylor added 13 each in the loss.