Kevin Durant erupted for a career‑high 39 points, leading the Houston Rockets to a 110‑105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night. The win snapped Houston’s two‑game losing streak, moved the Rockets half a game ahead in the Western Conference play‑in race, and underscored Durant’s impact at age 38.
Game Overview
The matchup turned into a tightly contested Western Conference battle. Both teams entered with identical 28‑23 records, but the Rockets edged out the Timberwolves by five points, improving to the 10th seed and leaving Minnesota in the 9th spot.
Key Moments
First Half Balance
The game opened with a back‑and‑forth exchange. Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards sparked the offense, while Houston’s Jalen Green answered with a series of three‑pointers, keeping the score within striking distance. The Rockets held a slim 56‑53 lead at halftime.
Durant Takes Control
Early in the third quarter, Durant’s fadeaway jumper over Karl‑Anthony Towns pushed his total to 20 points and ignited a 9‑2 run that gave Houston a six‑point edge. In the fourth quarter, after a Timberwolves surge trimmed the lead to two, Durant nailed a clutch three‑pointer and followed with a driving layup, extending the margin to eight points.
Statistical Snapshot
- Kevin Durant (HOU): 39 points (career‑high), 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals; 12‑of‑16 FG, 5‑of‑6 3PT, 10‑of‑12 FT.
- Anthony Edwards (MIN): 27 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists; 9‑of‑18 FG, 3‑of‑8 3PT.
- Jalen Green (HOU): 22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists; 8‑of‑15 FG, 4‑of‑7 3PT.
- Karl‑Anthony Towns (MIN): 19 points, 12 rebounds, 3 blocks.
The Rockets shot 48% from the field and 41% from three, while the Timberwolves posted 44% overall and 35% from beyond the arc. Both teams committed 13 turnovers, but Houston’s superior free‑throw rate (86% vs. 71%) proved decisive in the closing minutes.
Implications for Playoff Picture
Durant’s veteran leadership revitalized Houston’s push for a deep run in the play‑in tournament. The victory nudged the Rockets ahead of the play‑in line and provided momentum after a stretch of close defeats. For Minnesota, defensive lapses—especially in protecting the paint—remain a concern as they strive to reclaim a top‑eight spot.
Looking Ahead
The Rockets host the Phoenix Suns on Jan 22, a matchup that could further solidify their play‑in positioning. The Timberwolves travel to Denver on Jan 24, where a win is essential to keep their playoff hopes alive.
