Butler’s basket sends Hornets past Clippers

Corey Maggette’s layup failed to fall for LA with just over 24 seconds to play and the rebound squirted out-of-bounds. The officials originally gave possession to the Clippers, but after conferring with each other, they overruled the call and gave possession to the Hornets.

Bobby Jackson held the ball as time ran down before dishing to Marc Jackson for a 19-foot jumper. His shot was off, but Butler was there to put back the rebound while being fouled by Jason Hart. The product of Philadelphia’s La Salle University converted the three-point play and Elton Brand couldn’t get off a three-pointer as time expired for LA.

With a win and a Golden State loss to Portland, the Clippers could have clinched the eighth and final playoffs spot in the Western Conference. The Warriors, though, routed the Trail Blazers and locked up the final playoff berth as LA battled the Hornets down the stretch in the fourth quarter.

"I’m disappointed we lost the game tonight," said Clippers head coach Mike Dunleavy. "By halftime, we knew Golden State was up by 18 and our guys came out flat. I think our nucleus will continue to get better. I’m looking forward to next year."

David West scored 32 points and grabbed nine rebounds for the Hornets (39-43), who will play next season solely in New Orleans for the first time since the 2004-2005 season, before Hurricane Katrina ravaged the city. Devin Brown and Marc Jackson each scored 12 points, while Butler finished with 11.

Maggette had 21 points and 11 boards for the Clippers (40-42), who were looking to appear in the postseason in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 1992 and 1993.

LA led 26-25 after the opening 12 minutes and carried a 44-42 lead into the locker room. The Clippers led 66-65 heading into the fourth quarter as things remained tight down the stretch.

"The season is over and it really hurts," said Brand. "It burns. We now know what we have to do next year. We have to play smarter."

Game Notes

The Hornets finished 15-26 as the visitor this season...The Clippers ended 25-16 at the Staples Center....The Clippers and Hornets split four games this season.