Hawks hand Cavaliers first preseason loss, 99-93
ATLANTA — Dwight Howard scored 26 points in his home preseason debut with the Hawks as the Cavaliers rested LeBron James and other starters.
Howard, who signed a three-year, $70.5 million deal with his hometown Hawks in July, added eight rebounds and two blocks.
Rookies Kay Felder and Jonathan Holmes each had 15 points for Cleveland.
CAVALIERS: James also will be held out of the next two preseason games before playing on Oct. 18 against Washington at Ohio State in the Cavaliers' final preseason game. ... Cory Jefferson had 13 points and 11 rebounds. James Jones and Jordan McRae each had 12 points.
HAWKS: F Paul Millsap is moving closer to returning from a non-surgical procedure to reduce swelling in his right knee. Millsap is on pace to be ready for the regular season. ... Thabo Sefolosha had 12 points. Rookie Taurean Prince and Mike Muscala each had 10. ... Players for the two teams interlocked arms for the national anthem in the Hawks' first Unity Game.
UP NEXT: The Cavaliers (2-1) play at home against Toronto on Thursday. The Hawks (2-1) play another home game against Detroit on Thursday.
