LOS ANGELES - The Clippers are now on their way to face the Houston Rockets in the second round of the NBA playoffs.

It comes in the wake of Saturday's game of ups, downs, twists and turns as the Clippers beat the San Antonio Spurs 111-109 at Staples Center.

L.A. was led by Chris Paul, who missed much of the second quarter with a hamstring strain. He hit the game-winning shot with one second left on the clock and hobbled his way to 27 points on 9-of-13 shooting. Every time the Spurs threw a punch, Paul seemed to respond in kind.

Blake Griffin was fantastic as well, notching a triple-double with 24 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists. His inspired play while Paul was hurt helped the Clippers overcome what could've been a disastrous injury.

The Spurs were led by the truly ageless Tim Duncan, who scored 27 points on 11-of-16 shooting and grabbed 11 rebounds. Tony Parker added 20 points, but took 21 shots to get there.

San Antonio now enters the offseason with questions regarding the future of Manu Ginobili and Duncan. Both are on expiring contracts.

L.A., meanwhile, continues its quest to the Finals. The battle of Griffin and Paul against James Harden and Dwight Howard will surely provide many more thrills.

Story Date: May 4, 2015