Aldridge delivers another MVP performance in Trail Blazers' win over Rockets

LaMarcus Aldridge's big night against the Houston Rockets wasn't about the stats, the All-Star votes or the fans chanting "MVP! MVP!"

"This was a `we needed a win' night for me," said Aldridge, who had 31 points and a career-high 25 rebounds in the Trail Blazers' 111-104 victory Thursday.

It was the first time in franchise history that a Blazers player scored 30 or more points with 25 or more rebounds.

Dwight Howard had 32 points and 17 rebounds for the Rockets, who beat the Blazers 116-101 on Nov. 5. That was one of just two losses at home this season for Portland.