NOT HERE: The Clippers’ Elton Brand blocks a shot by Houston’s Yao Ming during the first quarter Tuesday night at Staples Center. (Danny Moloshok / AP)
REBOUND BATTLE: Houston center Dikembe Mutombo battles for a rebound against the Clippers in the first half. (Robert Gauthier / LAT)
AT IT AGAIN: Elton Brand reaches out to block a shot by Rockets guard David Wesley. (Robert Gauthier / LAT)
ALL-STAR DEFENSE: Clipper guard Shawn Livingston forces Houston forward Tracy McGrady to pass in the first quarter. (Robert Gauthier / LAT)
DUNK FUNK: Houston’s Stromile Swift failed to put down this dunk attempt over Chris Kaman. (Robert Gauthier / LAT)
THAT’S IT: Guard Sam Cassell receives his second technical foul as official Eli Roe ejects him from the game during the third quarter. (Danny Moloshok / AP)
CUT OFF: Elton Brand has trouble getting around Houston’s Stromile Swift, who was called for a foul on the play. (Robert Gauthier / LAT)
DOWN AND OUT: Starters Cuttino Mobley, Elton Brand, Shaun Livingston and Chris Kaman watch the end of a 128-97 loss to Houston from the bench. (Robert Gauthier / LAT)
