NBA Scores & Highlights: Kyrie Irving Returns, Scores 12 in Blowout Win Over Philadelphia 76ers

By Maria Quinto First Posted: Dec 21, 2015 07:00 AM EST

Cleveland Cavaliers superstar Kyrie Irving made his return from a long layoff and helped his team score a 108-86 win over the hapless Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday at Quicken Loans Arena.

Irving, who has not played since fracturing his left kneecap in Game 1 of their 2015 NBA Finals series against the Golden State Warriors, finished with 12 points on 5-for-12 shooting with two three-pointers to go along with four assists and two steals in 17 minutes of playing time.

"Kind of been a long, long road, but finally getting out there with my teammates was a pleasure," Irving told reporters after the win, which was their 18th in 25 games this season.

The All-Star point guard struggled to get into his rhythm early in the match, as he missed his first five shots before getting an easy layup off a pass from LeBron James, who gave Irving a pat on the head after scoring his first two points of the season.

"I was on my way to the rim and I saw Ky," James said, referring to the steal and assist to Irving. "He had missed his first couple shots and I was like the best way to come back is to get a layup, get an easy one and it was only right I was able to find him, welcoming him back the best way I know how."

After shaking off rush in the opening half, Irving put Cavaliers fans on their feet in the third quarter, as he scored seven points and had several highlight plays in the period, including a Euro-step move against old rival Kendal Marshall.

Irving is expected to be under minutes restriction in their next several games, but James, who finished with 23 points on top of five rebounds and four assists, is glad they are now recovering from the injury bug that hit the team before the season started. Iman Shumpert also played 16 minutes on Sunday.

"We're almost there," James said via ESPN. "Before the game we were in the hallway, and I saw so many familiar faces. Having Ky back after the six-month layoff was great because I know he was excited."