Big Ben shows ex-teammates he's still got it

Former Bulls center Ben Wallace's bad back began to bother him March 2, the last time the Bulls played in Cleveland, a 95-86 loss to the Cavaliers.

But Wallace, who missed four of the previous five games before starting Thursday, showed little effect from the pinched nerve that has led to back spasms.

Wallace went high to block Joakim Noah's one-handed dunk attempt three minutes into the game. Wallace went around Noah for a reverse layup four minutes later.

The Cavaliers are 9-7 with Wallace -- though 1-3 against the three teams ahead of them in the East.

''We felt like we knew what we were going to get from him on both ends of the floor, and he's been delivering,'' Cavaliers coach Mike Brown said.

''Not only that, he's been terrific in the locker room trying to help these guys out; terrific coming early, staying late, doing whatever we need. He's just been a great teammate. So he's been a positive for us.''

So, too, has Joe Smith, who was traded with Wallace to the Cavaliers on Feb. 22 for Larry Hughes and Drew Gooden.

Smith scored five points on 2-for-5 shooting and grabbed three rebounds in 13 minutes Thursday. He had combined for 36 points on 15-for-20 shooting with 16 rebounds in the Cavaliers' three previous games.

Smith said his production has increased with his minutes.

''Just getting a little bit more time on the floor,'' Smith said. ''I'm starting to get comfortable on the floor and just trying to get comfortable with my teammates and get into some type of rhythm going down the stretch and into the playoffs.''

Smith still keeps track of the Bulls.

''You always wish the guys the best,'' he said. ''I was hoping they'd get things turned around. But the NBA is a no-pity league. Hopefully, they're going to get some momentum down the stretch and look forward to next year.''