Los Angeles (AFP) - James Harden bagged his 11th triple double of the season to lead the Houston Rockets to a 121-114 victory over the Charlotte Hornets.
Harden, one of several players excelling in a high-scoring season across the league, finished with 40 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists as Houston improved to 31-9.
The Rockets talisman also came to Houston's rescue after Charlotte staged a dramatic fourth quarter fightback to take a shock lead.
Houston appeared to be cruising to victory after Corey Brewer's three-pointer gave them a 108-90 lead with around eight minutes left.