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Bryant, Lakers face off vs. Yao, Rockets

Dec 12, 2006 - 3:14 PM LA Lakers (14-6) at Houston (14-6) 8:30 pm EST

HOUSTON (Ticker) -- Phil Jackson will have all of his weapons available. But Jeff Van Gundy can't say the same.

The surprising Los Angeles Lakers take their act away from Staples Center for the first time in eight games as they visit the shorthanded Houston Rockets on Tuesday.

The Rockets might be without two-time scoring champion Tracy McGrady, who is expected to sit out due to back spasms. He missed 34 games a season ago with various injuries.

Yao Ming is coming off his best performance this campaign, scoring 23 of his season-high 38 points in the decisive fourth quarter as Houston posted a 114-109 victory over the Washington Wizards on Saturday.

The 7-6 Chinese import is making a strong case for the top big man in the league, averaging a career-best 25.5 points per game with eight double-doubles.

Reigning scoring champ Kobe Bryant returned from an ankle injury to score 34 points for the Lakers in Sunday's 106-99 triumph over the San Antonio Spurs. Lamar Odom contributed 18 points, 11 rebounds and nine assists in the win.

After having 15 of 20 games at home to begin the season, Los Angeles will hit the road for eight of its next 10 contests.

The Rockets have dropped five of six matchups in the series, including an 89-78 loss here on February 8 with Yao being held to just 14 points.