Overview
- The Rockets (7-1) host the Timberwolves (5-3) at Toyota Center on Wednesday, Nov. 4, with tip at 7:30 p.m. CT and local TV on Space City Home Network.
- Houston has accelerated its offense since Fred VanVleet returned, turning more defensive stops into quick scoring chances and easing the scoring load on Kevin Durant.
- Minnesota will again play without Anthony Edwards as he recovers from arthroscopic knee surgery, forcing LaMelo Ball to run more of the offense and Ayo Dosunmu to take on bigger scoring and playmaking duties.
- Injury designations could alter rotations with Rockets center Clint Capela listed as game-time decision and Steven Adams out, and Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo out with Terrence Shannon Jr. listed as questionable.
- Last season’s three close meetings between these teams and Houston’s early 7-1 start raise interest in how Minnesota’s short-term adjustments and Houston’s new pace will affect their long-term standings and matchup prep.