Timberwolves vs. Rockets: Injury Concerns Loom as West Rivals Clash

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Houston Rockets return from the All-Star break on Friday night with big questions surrounding their star players. Both teams are looking to gain momentum in the Western Conference playoff race, but injuries could play a major role in determining the outcome of this showdown in Houston.

The Timberwolves are riding high after a statement win over Oklahoma City, while the Rockets are hoping to reset after a rough stretch before the break. With Anthony Edwards and Fred VanVleet questionable, how will each team adjust?

Minnesota’s Injury Woes: Will Edwards Suit Up?

The Timberwolves (39-16) sit near the top of the West, but their injury report is a major concern heading into Friday’s game.

Key Players on Minnesota’s Injury List:

Anthony Edwards (hip soreness) – Day-to-day after missing the All-Star Game.
Rudy Gobert (back soreness) – Questionable.
Mike Conley (finger sprain) – Questionable.
Donte DiVincenzo (toe injury) – Cleared for non-contact drills but still out.
Julius Randle (groin strain) – Set to resume full-contact 5-on-5 scrimmaging.

With five of their top eight players dealing with injuries, the Wolves are far from full strength. However, they showed grit before the break, beating the Thunder 116-101 despite a depleted lineup.

Naz Reid stepped up big, posting 27 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Jaden McDaniels added 21 points. Edwards, playing through discomfort, still managed 23 points in that game.

Coach Chris Finch sees the break as a time for reflection and improvement.

“I think you are who you are at that point in time,” Finch said. “But coming back, you get hyper-focused on the things you can improve.”

If Edwards, Gobert, and Conley are unable to go, the Wolves will need another massive game from Reid and McDaniels to keep their momentum rolling.

Houston Hoping for Reset After Tough Stretch

The Rockets (31-24) entered the All-Star break struggling, losing seven of their last nine games. The biggest issue? Injuries—especially the absence of floor general Fred VanVleet, who has missed seven straight games with an ankle injury.

VanVleet is listed as day-to-day, and his return would provide a major boost for Houston. Coach Ime Udoka admitted that the team has missed VanVleet’s leadership and organization.

“What he does do is get us organized,” Udoka said. “Point guard is one of the most important positions, and we’ve seen how much we’ve struggled without him.”

Key Rockets Players to Watch:

Fred VanVleet (ankle) – Day-to-day; his return would stabilize Houston’s offense.
Jalen Green (21.2 PPG) – Rockets’ top scorer, looking to step up in VanVleet’s absence.
Alperen Sengun (18.8 PPG, 10.5 RPG) – The first-time All-Star has been Houston’s most consistent player.
Aaron Holiday – Dropped 25 points in the last game and could be a key contributor if VanVleet remains out.

Udoka admitted that the Rockets needed the break, as the team was mentally and physically drained.

“Certain players could be mentally and physically fried,” Udoka said. “But now, it’s time to reset.”

Head-to-Head: Wolves Dominating the Rockets

Minnesota has won 12 of the last 14 matchups against Houston, including a 2-1 record in their three meetings this season. However, with injuries affecting both sides, this game could come down to which team adjusts better.

If Edwards plays, Minnesota will have the edge with their star power.
If VanVleet returns, Houston’s offense will run much smoother.
If both are out, expect a gritty, defensive battle between two teams trying to find consistency.

Prediction & Final Thoughts

This game will likely be decided by who is available to play. If Edwards suits up, Minnesota should have enough firepower to grind out a tough road win. But if VanVleet returns, Houston’s offense could find its rhythm and pull off a much-needed victory.

Houston Rockets vs Minnesota Timberwolves Picks and Predictions February 21st 2025