Game Preview
The Houston Rockets (12-6) roll into Minneapolis riding a wave of momentum, having won 7 of their last 10 games and sporting an impressive 66.7% win rate on the season. Their potent offense is averaging a scorching 113.8 points over that stretch, fueled by a 44.1% shooting clip from the field. The Rockets have been particularly locked in defensively, holding opponents to just 103.7 points per contest while swatting nearly 6 blocks per game.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves (8-8) have struggled to find consistency, splitting their last 10 games while surrendering 109.7 points on average. Despite their balanced 46.5% shooting and a respectable 113.6 points per game, the Wolves have been plagued by turnovers, coughing up the ball a concerning 14.7 times over this recent stretch. Their defensive rebounding has also been a weakness, grabbing just 41.6 boards per contest.
The Rockets have taken charge in recent meetings, winning 3 of their last 5 while displaying a renewed commitment on the glass. Houston has dominated the boards, hauling in a robust 52 rebounds per game and limiting opponents' second-chance opportunities. Their perimeter defense has also shined, holding teams to a paltry 30.9% from deep during this span. If the Timberwolves can't shore up their turnover woes and find a way to slow Houston's balanced attack, the Rockets could be poised to extend their recent surge.