NBA Triple Threat: Your (almost) daily roundup of last night's action in the Association:

Cavs gut out a win This wasn't a pretty game, but the Cavs still got their first win in Dallas since 2000, 88-81. Both teams shot 36% and took 63 foul shots combined. Cleveland took the lead fairly early, and never let it go as the Mavs struggled for the second straight night. Dallas has set a high bar in recent years, which is how 19-11 is considered struggling.

Pierce leads Celtics It was Ray Allen's return to Seattle, but Paul Pierce stole the show with a season high 37 points, including 26 in the second half, as Boston won 104-96. No word on if any Boston fans are upset that deficit wasn't higher. Allen scored just 10 points in his return.

Suns pound Clips The final score was 108-88, and it wasn't even that close. Phoenix led by 30 after the third. The Clips shot just 37% from the field, showing that the Suns can play good defense once in a while.

Best Lines

• Paul Pierce, Bos: 37 pts, 5-7 3PT, 10-11 FT, 6 rebs, 4 ast, 1 stl
• Amare Stoudemire, Pho: 30 pts, 11-14 FG, 15 rebs, 1 ast, 4 blk...How to Abuse Chris Kaman: A Play in Four Acts.
• LeBron James, Cle: 24 pts, 8 rebs, 7 ast, 3 stl

Rumors du Jour

• Paxson not feeling pressure - Suuuuuuuuure.
• Ewing: Curry may not have New York mentality - I would amend one thing on that. Curry may not have the mentality to succeed period.
• Wally not asking for trade - Even if he isn't, he'll probably get one next year, when he becomes an expiring contract.

Now it's your turn: share your thoughts on the on and off court action Thursday in the NBA.