NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana (AFP) - David West scored 37 points and sparked a fourth-quarter rally to lift the New Orleans Hornets past the National Basketball Association-leading Boston Celtics 113-106 here Saturday.

West scored 13 of his points in the fourth quarter while Chris Paul added seven of his 19 in the last 12 minutes when the Hornets, trailing 65-55 at halftime and 89-81 after three quarters, outscored Boston 32-17.

The Hornets improved to 47-21, one victory behind the Los Angeles Lakers for the best record in the Western Confernece but staying just ahead of Houston atop the Southwest division and 1 1/2 games ahead of NBA champion San Antonio.

Boston lost for only the 14th time in 69 games but remained more than five games ahead of the Detroit Pistons for the best record in the NBA. The Celtics have already clinched a playoff berth and division crown.

Paul Pierce scored 28 points to lead the Celtics, who also had 23 points from Rajon Rondo and 19 points, 11 rebounds and 12 assists from Kevin Garnett.

Jannero Pargo added 15 points for New Orleans.