Harden motivated by wins, not scoring streak

James Harden finished with 31 points against Dallas Mavericks after adding 11 to his tally in under two minutes late in the final quarter.

James Harden says winning is the only thing on his mind.

James Harden extended his streak of scoring at least 30 points to 30 consecutive games but said winning was the only thing on his mind as the Houston Rockets star finished with a flourish against the Dallas Mavericks.

The reigning NBA MVP was in danger of falling short of the milestone, but finished with 31 after adding 11 to his tally in under two minutes late in the final quarter at Toyota Center on Monday.

Harden was hampered by a sore shoulder, but played through the pain barrier to inspire the Rockets to a 120-104 victory.

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"I was worried about winning," Harden told reporters. "They were making shots. They were coming back, cut the lead to 10 or nine points, something like that. So I just wanted to get the proper shots. They put two on the ball and I got off it a few times and we got some good opportunities."

He added: "I couldn't get the lift that I usually have for my shot, but that's no excuse. I'm just happy we won the game."

Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni is not concerned about the fitness of Harden, who also claimed eight rebounds and laid on seven assists.

"If he comes to the arena, he's playing," D'Antoni said. "I can't keep him out of practice, much less playing. He loves to play and he knows his body. He can go through this. He's fine."