HOUSTON, Nov. 24 (Xinhua) -- James Harden had 36 points to lead the Houston Rockets to a 91-86 victory over the slumping New York Knicks on Monday night.
The Rockets led by double digits in parts of the first half but the Knicks had a late spurt to cut Houston's lead to 51-46 by halftime. The Knicks continued their momentum in the third quarter and tied the game to 69-69 entering the final period.
But the Knicks just couldn't stop Harden from scoring and their own offensive was thwarted by the Rockets' vigorous defense. With Harden scoring the last points, Houston claimed the victory.
Harden led all players with 36 points, six rebounds and six assists. Donatas Motiejunas grabbed 13 points and eight boards for Houston and Trevor Ariza added 10 points.
Despite an early exit from the game due to back spasms, Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks with 14 points and seven rebounds. Jose Calderon and Travis Wear both had nine points.
With the victory, the Rockets improve to 11-3 while the Knicks slump to 4-11.
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