Luther Head talks about losing Yao for 6 weeks and losing to the Clips

Despite scoring 22 points, including a season-high five 3-pointers (5 for 8), Luther Head was not happy. Not only did the Rockets blow a 48 to 39 lead at halftime to the Los Angeles Clippers in a 98 to 93 loss, the worse news is Rockets center Yao Ming will miss at least six weeks with a fracture in his right knee.

Luther said there's "...still no excuse..." for losing this game.

Ironically, the Rockets played well after Yao Ming's injury in the first quarter; however, the team defense completely collapsed in the second half as the Clippers scored 59 points on 66.7% (20 for 30) field goal shooting.

Six Clippers scored in double figures led by a season-high 21 points from forward Tim Thomas.

Shane Battier led all scorers with a game-high 28 points. In addition to Battier's points and 22 points from Luther Head, Rafer Alston added 21.

The Rockets (16-11) head back on the road for a quick two game trip to Indiana (12/26) and New Jersey (12/27).