LeBron James over 20 points again, Heat cruise to 110-95 victory over Dallas Mavericks

Miami Heat forward LeBron James (6) drives past Dallas Mavericks center Chris Kaman (35) during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, Dec. 20, 2012, Dallas. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (The Associated Press)

5333bac0-APTOPIX Heat Mavericks Basketball

Miami Heat center Chris Bosh (1) reaches for a loose ball during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks, Thursday, Dec. 20, 2012, Dallas. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (The Associated Press)

DALLAS – LeBron James scored 24 points with some early baskets on nifty passes from Dwyane Wade, and the Miami Heat rolled to a 110-95 victory over the injury plagued Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night.

James has scored at least 20 points in all 23 games, the longest streak to start an NBA season since Karl Malone's 24 in a row opening the 1989-90 season.

Dallas, still waiting for the season debut of 11-time All-Star Dirk Nowitzki after right knee surgery, was also without starting point guard Derek Fisher (right knee).

The Heat never trailed after James drove for a short floater 3 minutes into the game to make it 6-4. They had their first double-digit lead, 22-11 when James made a 3-pointer with 4 ½ minutes left in the first quarter.

Wade had 19 points and six assists while Chris Bosh had 17 points.

Rookie Jae Crowder had 15 points to lead six Dallas players in double figures.