Paul scores 41 points as Rockets advance to Western Conference Final

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Chris Paul scored a playoff career-high 41 points with eight three-pointers to finally reach the conference finals, helping the Houston Rockets eliminate the Utah Jazz 112-102 in Game 5 on Tuesday night.

Chris Paul (R) in action /Reuters Photo

It will be Houston's second trip to the Western Conference finals in four years and the first ever for Paul. The point guard has been panned for failing to get past the second round in his nine previous trips to the postseason.

Donovan Mitchell (C) in action /Reuters Photo

Houston will meet the winner of the Golden State Warriors after the defending champions beat the New Orleans Pelicans 113-104 to close out their series 4-1.

Donovan Mitchell injured in the fourth quarter /Reuters Photo

Paul, a nine-time All-Star in his first season with Houston after an offseason trade from the Los Angeles Clippers, also had 10 assists and seven rebounds. His previous career-best in the playoffs was 35 points, which he accomplished three times.

Chris Paul in action /VCG Photo

Star rookie Donovan Mitchell had 22 of his 24 points for Utah in the third quarter before leaving with about seven minutes left with an apparent left leg injury.

Chris Paul and Donovan Mitchell hug after the match. /VCG Photo

Houston returns to the conference finals for the first time since 2015. It's the second straight season the Jazz lost in this round after being swept by Golden State last season.

Chris Paul and James Harden celebrate their victory after the match. /VCG Photo