Washington—The Washington Wizards are in the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season, and their coach wasn't around to talk about it.

Eddie Jordan is suffering from a sinus infection and went straight home moments after Washington beat the Miami Heat 109-95 yesterday.

It was somehow fitting that the Wizards, whose three top scorers have played just nine games together this season, would have an under-the-weather coach on this somewhat special night. It's the first time the team has qualified for the playoffs in four consecutive seasons since it made five straight appearances from 1983-88.

Caron Butler scored 29 points for the Wizards, who were without Antawn Jamison for the first time this season due to an injured shoulder.

Hornets 118, Knicks 110

The New Orleans Hornets became the first team to clinch a berth in the NBA’s Western Conference playoffs by beating the New York Knicks 118-110.

Chris Paul had 33 points and 15 assists for New Orleans, which increased its lead on the top of the West to 1-1/2 games over San Antonio, who lost to Utah.

The Knicks have lost 17 of 19 but stayed competitive into the fourth quarter. The Hornets trailed 95-91 with 10:20 left before putting away the game with a 26-9 run.

The Hornets won their 10th in a row at home.

Lakers 112, Mavs 108

In Los Angeles, the home side followed New Orleans into the West playoffs by beating Dallas.

Lamar Odom scored a season-high 31 points and Kobe Bryant added 25 points and 10 rebounds for the Lakers, who have qualified for the playoffs in 55 of their 60 seasons as a franchise.

76ers 109, Hawks 104

In Atlanta, Philadelphia wrapped up its first playoff spot in three years by beating Atlanta.

Andre Iguodala scored 30 points and Andre Miller had 23 as Philadelphia stopped the Hawks’ five-game winning streak.

Bobcats 105, Raptors 100

In Toronto, Jason Richardson scored 27 points to lead Charlotte over Toronto.

Earl Boykins converted a three-point play after stealing the ball from T.J. Ford in the final minute.

Despite the defeat, the Raptors secured a playoff spot because New Jersey lost to Detroit.

Pistons 106, Nets 87

In Auburn Hills, Michigan, Detroit beat New Jersey for its fourth straight victory.

Antonio McDyess scored 19 points and Rasheed Wallace added 17 points and eight rebounds as Detroit moved to the verge of clinching the second seed in the Eastern Conference. AP

Other Results: Jazz 90 vs Spurs 64; Suns 117 vs Wolves 88; Rockets 79 vs Sonics 66; Warriors 117 vs Grizzlies 86; Pacers 105 vs Bucks 101