OK, it actually was a coincidence that the team planned to wear its new alternate red road uniforms at home for the last time this season. But they still were thrilled with the return of the former Ohio State star, who missed 14 games with a sprained right ankle.

Redd was thrilled, too.

"It feels good, about 85 percent," he said of the ankle. "I don't know how it's going to hold up tonight. I'm just glad to be back in the warm-up line. I'm happy to be playing. It hurt a lot not to be out there with my teammates. It was a freak accident. I just had to be patient and make sure I got back right before I got back on the court, rather than dipping into and out of games."

The people in the building not especially pleased were the Cavs.

"Michael's an Olympian, a gold medalist, an NBA All-Star player. . . . I could go on and on about the positive qualities Michael Redd brings to this team and organization," Cavs coach Mike Brown said before the game. "He's definitely hurt us. He's been a thorn in our side the last three or four years. It's another guy we've got to worry about on their team."

No Damon: Although Damon Jones was sent to Milwaukee as part of the trade that brought Mo Williams to Cleveland, he has not reported to the team - by mutual agreement.

Jones is still being paid his salary, which is about $4.4 million this season, while the Bucks explore other options that would be in Jones' best interests - and theirs. The main reason the team doesn't just cut him is that he has an expiring contract, which could come in handy should Bucks GM John Hammond try to make another deal in an attempt to improve his team. The Bucks also could find a team that needs a shooter and would pick up part of Jones' salary, thereby saving themselves some money.

"We appreciate Damon and his patience and his willingness to work with us on this," said Hammond.

Jones has been working out in Los Angeles and Las Vegas and reportedly spent some time with former Cav Devin Brown, who is now playing with New Orleans.

Road trips: The Cavs' only losses this season have come on the road, and they've been to good teams - Boston, New Orleans and Detroit.

Given the way the Cavs are playing, there is not a lot to criticize. But is it a bad sign that they have been unable to beat those good teams on the road?

"I wouldn't read into it at this point, because it's too early to tell," Brown said. "Obviously, they're three good teams. Obviously, they were all on the road. Obviously, we're not going to win all those on the road against those guys. But do I think we're capable? Heck, yeah."

Added LeBron James: "We have [road] wins against very good teams, too. You need something to write about, then go ahead."

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: mschmitt@plaind.com, 216-999-4668