The Timberwolves (27-14, 4th in West) have their eyes set on a trip to the NBA Finals. That means taking care of business against fellow Western Conference contenders. Tonight presents an opportunity to do so on the road against the Rockets (23-15, 6th in West). Houston is looking to bounce back following Thursday’s blowout loss to Oklahoma City. Still, that may prove difficult on the second leg of a back-to-back.
The Rockets are 4.5-point favorites (-115) over the Timberwolves on DraftKings Sportsbook. Houston is favored at -180 on the moneyline. The total for this contest is set at 222.5 points. Here’s my preview, prediction, and pick for Friday’s Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Houston Rockets matchup.
Timberwolves vs. Rockets prediction, preview
The Wolves will look a bit different tonight. Face of the franchise Anthony Edwards has been ruled out for a second straight game due to a foot injury. In his absence, Julius Randle will continue to serve as Minnesota’s offensive engine. Over his last five games, the power forward has recorded 21.4 points, 8.4 rebounds and 5.4 assists. That includes solid 52/38/69 shooting splits during that time. Still, it’s not as if Randle is the only scorer taking the court. Five other Timberwolves players are averaging at least ten points per game.
Minnesota’s biggest strength is its defense. That’s due in large part to Rudy Gobert, still one of the sport’s elite rim protectors. This season, the Frenchman has accounted for 11.0 points, 11.4 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. He’s accompanied by fellow center Naz Reid. The former Sixth Man of the Year provides a different flavor, capable of spacing the floor with his terrific shooting. Those two, plus Randle, give the Timberwoles a dangerous trio down low.
Against one of the NBA’s biggest squads, Houston will need some help inside the paint. Unfortunately, it’s the second leg of a back-to-back. That means Steven Adams is unlikely to suit up. The veteran center remains a superb rebounder; his absence is notable. Still, that’s not to say the Rockets can’t still put up a fight. All-Star Alperen Sengun will hope to give Minnesota all it can handle on Friday. This season, the Turkish phenom has delivered 21.5 points, 9.0 rebounds and 6.5 assists.
The headliner in Houston is Kevin Durant, acquired from the Suns last offseason. It’s been another terrific campaign for the future Hall-of-Famer. Over 36 games, he’s posted 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.4 assists while shooting 51% from the field (39% 3PT). Those numbers are impressive, especially on an offense that plays at the NBA’s second-slowest pace (95.8). The Rockets will be more dependent than usual on KD tonight. Wings Tari Eason (ankle) and Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle) are both injured.
Timberwolves vs. Rockets pick, best bet
Houston enters this contest in a slump, losing four of its last five games. Still, an Edwards-less Timberwolves squad doesn’t exactly scare anyone. That’s not to say Minnesota is a one-man show, but it’s difficult beating a good team without your best player. On the flip side, the Rockets are on short rest with important contributors already ruled out. It’s difficult to see either squad operating at full speed in this one. All signs are pointing to an ugly, grind-it-out affair tonight.
