HOUSTON, April 14 (UPI) -- Yao Ming scored 30 points Saturday night to help the Houston Rockets beat the New Orleans Hornets, 123-112.
David West made a three-point play as New Orleans came within 107-103 with 2:41 remaining. Houston then scored 11 straight points to put the game away.
Tracy McGrady had 25 points, seven rebounds and 10 assists. Rafer Alston had 21 points and 13 assists, Luther Head had 15 points and five assists, and Shane Battier added 14 points and four rebounds for the Rockets, who have won four in a row.
West led New Orleans with 33 points, four rebounds and two steals. Chris Paul had 20 points and 15 assists for the Hornets, who played without center Tyson Chandler (toe injury).
The loss left New Orleans on the brink of elimination in the Western Conference playoff picture.
