Rockets 88, Clippers 71 - Just as Corey Maggette and Brevin Knight returned from injuries, Sam Cassell went down with one. He's doubtful for Friday. The battered Clippers hung tough with Houston until the 4th quarter when Tracy McGrady helped Houston blow it wide open. Maggette had 21 points in his return, and Chris Kaman led the team with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Los Angeles has now dropped seven of nine after winning the first four of the season.

Only in LA - UCLA is #1 in the coach's poll (USC is back in Top 25) on the hardcourt ... David Beckham offends cancer survivor children, but at least he's back with the Galaxy (not that it was his choice, he was cut from England) ... The Red Bulls are trying to poach Preki.

Elsewhere - Dog bites man. Man is in the middle of a college football game ... Surprise box of historical importance (think Black Socks) found in Chicago. Sadly, no Geraldo on the scene ... It's not a game unless you have gunpowder in your underwear ... Ahhh, referee bloopers.

Today's Action - Seattle @ Lakers (7:30pm), Ducks @ Vancouver (7:00pm).

AP photo by Danny Moloshok.