Rockets PG Paul back after 17-game absence

Houston Rockets point guard Chris Paul returned from a 17-game absence due to a hamstring injury to play in Sunday night's game against the Orlando Magic. Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni told reporters in his pregame media session that Paul would start the contest.

Paul injured his left hamstring in a game against the Miami Heat on Dec. 20. The Rockets went 12-5 during Paul's absence while riding the exploits of James Harden, who has an ongoing streak of 22 straight 30-point performances.

Paul, 33, is averaging 15.6 points and 8.0 assists in 26 games this season. --Field Level Media