James returns to lead Heat past Nuggets on birthday

LeBron James returned from a groin injury on his birthday and wasted no time finding his shooting touch.

James scored 26 points and the Miami Heat beat the skidding Denver Nuggets 97-94 Monday night despite losing Dwyane Wade and Norris Cole during the game.

Chris Bosh had 17 points and Ray Allen 13, including six in the final 5:08, as Miami won for the ninth time in 11 games. Ty Lawson scored 26 points to lead the Nuggets.