McGrady's layup leads Rockets past Lakers
(AP)
Updated: 2005-12-19 11:51

"We just have to go about business as usual," Rockets guard David Wesley said. "It's unfortunate. We've got to find a way to win despite that. It won't be easy."

Houston Rockets' Yao Ming, of China, makes a face as he looks up toward the scoreboard during the second half of their NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Clippers, Saturday, Dec. 17, 2005, in Los Angeles. [AP]

Van Gundy said Dikembe Mutombo would start in Yao's spot. Mutombo was averaging 10.9 minutes, 1.7 points and 3.3 rebounds in 20 games.

"I'm ready to go, there's no question about that," the 39-year-old center said. "You don't know when your name is going to be called."

Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Yao's absence was "a disappointment for our fans."

When Lakers forward Lamar Odom was told Yao wouldn't be playing, he replied: "Good. This is sports, right?"

Odom went on to say he'd be happy facing the San Francisco Giants without Barry Bonds and the Indianapolis Colts without Peyton Manning.

"They've got a great player, though, a great player on the wing who can make shots," Odom said, referring to McGrady. "Mutombo's a warrior and he plays hard."