There’s only one way LeBron James’ return to Cleveland could’ve gone worse: ‘Depths of hell’

The Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Philadelphia 76ers 119-95 in an NBA Cup group-stage game, holding LeBron James to eight points in his return to Cleveland. James had chosen Philadelphia over a third stint with the Cavaliers in the off-season, and the result marked a difficult night for the 76ers despite their strong start to the season.

James made three of 12 shots, missed all four three-point attempts and said he had struggled to find an offensive rhythm. He heard some boos from Cleveland fans, but said the reception was mild compared with his first game back after leaving for Miami in 2010. Donovan Mitchell scored 23 points and Evan Mobley added 22 for Cleveland; Philadelphia shot 36.5% from the field and fell to 8-3.