NBA scores: Jeremy Lin, Rockets blow out Knicks; Nets shut down Clippers

After the entire league had the day off on Thanksgiving, there were 12 NBA games on the slate for Friday evening.

The Nets and Clippers met at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Despite a strong showing early from L.A., Brooklyn's defense stepped up in a big way and gave up just 29 points in the second half before going on to win 86-76. Brook Lopez had a big night with 26 points.

The Celtics held off Kevin Durant and the Thunder by a score of 108-100. Rajon Rondo continued his fine season with 16 assists, while veteran Paul Pierce had 27 points.

The struggling Lakers fell again on Friday night. The Memphis Grizzlies improved to 7-2 this year with a big 106-98 win. Los Angeles' offense continued to be stagnant without Steve Nash, and it appears Dwight Howard is still not feeling completely healthy after another lackluster performance.

The hometown Phoenix Suns defeated the Hornets with an exciting 111-108 overtime win. Phoenix trailed by 19 points in the third quarter, but a couple of big shots and defensive stands clawed them back into the game. The Suns are now 6-7 this season.

Eight games are on the schedule for Saturday, including Lakers versus Mavericks and the Thunder heading into Philly to take on the 76ers.