The Houston Rockets (40-41) took care of business against the Minnesota Timberwolves (28-53) on Monday in a 129-105 win.
Only one of these teams had something to play for and it was evident by this result. Houston got at it early, as they had a 17-point lead after the first quarter and 29-point lead headed into the fourth. The offense was on point, as they shot 56 percent from the field and 50 percent from three-point range.
The Rockets needed a win here to keep their playoffs hopes alive and they made no doubt of that here. James Harden stepped up big time,as he tallied 34 points and six assists in just three quarters of play. Dwight Howard played well too, as he totaled 19 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Clint Capela recorded a double-double off the bench, in a 10-point, 10-rebound outing. Houston's final game will be on Wednesday against the Sacramento Kings.
Minnesota had nothing to play for in this game and the simply didn’t show up. Shabazz Muhammad led the team with 23 points off the bench, as he went 9-for-13 from the field. Zach LaVine led the starters with 21 points. The Timberwolves final game is on Wednesday against the New Orleans Pelicans.
