NBA Scores: Rockets, Clippers Win To Keep Pace In West

The Houston Rockets, still shorthanded due to the absence of the team's starting backcourt, managed to add another win to their tally on Monday, edging the Sacramento Kings 113-106 in overtime. The Kings led by as many as 16 in the first quarter and by eight midway through the fourth quarter, but Houston rode a career-high 24 points from Patrick Patterson and a second half outburst from Luis Scola to notch the victory.

DeMarcus Cousins had 38 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.

Later on Monday, the L.A. Clippers picked up a win, too. The Clips earned revenge on the New Orleans Hornets, winning 97-85 at home. L.A. had lost in New Orleans last week. Chris Paul registered 25 points and 10 assists for the Clippers.

As the Nuggets and Jazz also won, the West playoff bracket remained incredibly tight, as just 1.5 games separates the No. 4 seed (the Clips) and the No. 9 seed (the Nuggets).

Magic 117, Raptors 101: Ryan Anderson had 28, hitting 8-13 three-pointers. Dwight Howard added 23 and 10.

Celtics 102, Bobcats 95: This is a bit close for comfort; the Bobcats led at halftime. They deserve a half-win for that, or something. #JusticeForCharlotte