GST Staff

Timberwolves vs. Rockets Prediction, Odds, Best Prop Bets December 27, 2024

Red-Hot Rockets Look to Extend Winning Ways vs. Timberwolves

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The Houston Rockets (20-9) enter Friday's home matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves (15-14) riding a three-game winning streak and playing their best basketball of the season. Over their last 20 games, the Rockets have compiled an impressive 15-5 record, averaging a robust 113.5 points per game while holding opponents to just 105.2.

Fueling their recent surge has been a sizzling offense that's shooting nearly 45% from the field and 32% from three-point range. They've also tightened up defensively, limiting foes to a shade above 105 points over the last 20 contests while grabbing almost 51 rebounds per game. Balanced scoring, ball movement (23 assists), and active hands (9 steals) have propelled the Rockets to a 75% winning clip during this torrid stretch.

The Timberwolves, meanwhile, have struggled to find consistency. Though sporting a respectable 15-14 overall mark, they've hovered around 45% in win percentage across their last 20 games. On offense, Minnesota averages a modest 106 points while shooting 44.5% from the floor and 35.6% from deep. Their defense has been similarly middle-of-the-road, surrendering 105.6 points per contest.

In their last five games, the Timberwolves have scuffled to a 2-3 record, highlighted by uneven shooting percentages (43.5% FG, 37.6% 3PT) and an inability to slow opponents (110.8 points allowed per game). However, they've shown flashes by racking up 27.2 assists and grabbing 44.4 rebounds - numbers that could pose problems for Houston on the glass and in transition.


With both teams entering on contrasting trajectories, the Rockets' red-hot form and airtight defense give them a decided edge on their home floor. For Minnesota to pull the upset, they'll need to lock in defensively, win the rebounding battle, and hope their outside shooting catches fire. Otherwise, Houston's balanced attack and smothering defense could make for a long night against the Western Conference's latest juggernaut.