LOS ANGELES_Russell Westbrook scored 40 points in 40 minutes to lead the Houston Rockets to a 122-117 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, who lost for only the second time this season at Staples Center despite shooting 49.4% from the field and 43.2% from three-point range.
Westbrook made only 13 of 31 shots but converted 12 of his 13 free throws. James Harden finished with 28 points and 10 assists for the Rockets (19-9), who shot 50% from the field and 37.8% from long range.
Paul George led the Clippers (21-9) with 34 points on 12-of-23 shooting, including six of 12 on three-pointers. Kawhi Leonard had 25 points while Montrezl Harrell had 19 off the bench. George and Leonard each had nine rebounds.
