Clippers point guard Chris Paul and Rockets point guard Courtney Fortson go to the court in chase of a loose ball during the second quarter Saturday afternoon at Staples Center. (Michael Robinson Chavez / Los Angeles Times / March 17, 2012) |
Blake Griffin had 18 points and eight rebounds before fouling out with 4.9 seconds remaining.
Randy Foye contributed 15 points in what could be his last start because of the acquisition of Nick Young on Thursday from Washington.
Courtney Lee led Houston with a season-high 25 points despite a strained tendon in the middle finger of his left hand. Chase Budinger added 19 points, and Goran Dragic had 14 assists along with his 11 points.
The victory put the Clippers within 2 1/2 games of the idle Lakers in the race for the Pacific Division lead.