HIGHLIGHTS: LeBron James fires Cleveland Cavaliers to win, Oklahoma City Thunder down San Antonio Spurs

James scored 25 points and came up with two big steals late in the fourth quarter to help the Cavaliers seize the early initiative in the best-of-seven series at Cleveland’s Quicken Loans Arena.

Kyrie Irving added 21 points with eight assists and one rebound as the well-rested Cavaliers dominated against a weary Atlanta.

The Cavs had benefited from more than a week off after wrapping up a 4-0 sweep of the Detroit Pistons in the first round.

A satisfied James suggested Cleveland had benefited from eight days off against an Atlanta side who were taken to six games by the Boston Celtics in the previous round.

Atlanta had fought back to within four at 92-88 with 3:11 left on the clock before James dispossessed Schroder and converted a three-point play to stretch the Cavs lead.

In Monday’s other game, Russell Westbrook scored 29 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder bounced back to beat San Antonio 98-97.

Just two days after suffering a 32-point blowout defeat on Saturday, Westbrook and Kevin Durant both produced big games to propel the Thunder to a crucial victory.

Westbrook’s haul was matched by another masterful performance from Durant, who added 28 points to underscore his value to the franchise as free agency looms.