The Houston Rockets edged out the Minnesota Timberwolves 110‑105 at the Toyota Center on January 16, 2026. Jalen Green powered the win with 28 points and a clutch free‑throw finish, while the Rockets out‑rebounded the Wolves 45‑38. The narrow victory kept Houston at 4‑3, strengthening its push for a top‑four Western Conference seed.
Game Flow and Key Moments
The Rockets started strong, using Jalen Green’s explosiveness and Alper Yıldırım’s three‑point shooting to build a 28‑20 lead after the first quarter. Minnesota answered in the second quarter, cutting the deficit to four points at halftime (54‑50) thanks to Anthony Edwards Jr.’s drives and Naz Rebong’s perimeter shot.
The third quarter became a back‑and‑forth duel. Timberwolves point guard Mika Kelley sparked a 9‑0 run to briefly lead 71‑66, but Houston’s bench responded. Kenyon Martin contributed 12 points off the bench and a critical defensive stop restored the lead, ending the period 84‑80.
In the decisive fourth quarter, both teams exchanged leads. With 2:13 left, the Wolves tied the game at 105‑105 after a contested layup by Edwards Jr. Green drove, drew a foul and sank both free throws to give Houston a 107‑105 edge. A missed three‑pointer by Minnesota on the final possession sealed the 110‑105 victory.
Statistical Highlights
- Scoring: Jalen Green led Houston with 28 points (11‑of‑19 FG, 4‑of‑7 3PT). Alper Yıldırım added 22 points, hitting five three‑pointers.
- Rebounding: Houston out‑rebounded Minnesota 45‑38; Kenyon Martin grabbed 11 boards, including eight offensive.
- Assists: Timberwolves’ Mika Kelley dished out 11 assists, while Anthony Edwards Jr. recorded 9.
- Turnovers: Both teams committed 14 turnovers, keeping the contest within striking distance.
Betting Insight
Pre‑game odds favored the Rockets as modest 2.5‑point favorites, driven by their deeper roster and home‑court advantage. The final margin of five points aligned with the betting line, rewarding bettors who emphasized Houston’s offensive efficiency and the Wolves’ turnover susceptibility.
Implications for the Western Conference Race
Houston improved to 4‑3, reinforcing its pursuit of a top‑four seed that secures home‑court advantage in the opening playoff round. The win highlighted the Rockets’ poise in clutch situations, a crucial trait for postseason success.
Minnesota slipped to 5‑4, exposing late‑game execution and free‑throw challenges. The Wolves must address these issues to remain competitive against Western powerhouses.
Looking Ahead
The Rockets travel next to face the Denver Nuggets, a test of their defensive adaptability against a high‑scoring opponent. The Timberwolves return home to host the Phoenix Suns, aiming to rebound from the narrow loss and reassert their road credibility.
