(CNN) -- LeBron James led the much-vaunted Miami Heat to a morale-boosting Christmas Day victory over two-time defending NBA champions Los Angeles Lakers.
James notched 27 points with 10 assists and 11 rebounds for the 31st triple-double of his career in the 96-80 win in the heavyweight clash on the Lakers' home court.
Chris Bosh added 24 points and 13 rebounds for the Heat and Dwyane Wade chipped in 18 points despite a knee problem.
It was another chastening experience for the slumping Lakers and their talisman Kobe Bryant, after a 19-point home reverse to the Milwaukee Bucks four days previously.
James, who moved to the star-studded Heat from Cleveland in a free agent summer move, was delighted by their performance, with stifling defense the key. CNN
