The first time around, the Wolves allowed 65 first-half points and
trailed by 33 points before intermission. This time they trailed 46-42
at halftime before ultimately surrendering in the fourth quarter to the
Rockets and Tracy McGrady. McGrady had been considered questionable to
play because of a sore shoulder but delivered a 23-point, 11-rebound,
nine-assist performance that steadied his team down the stretch.
trailed by 33 points before intermission. This time they trailed 46-42
at halftime before ultimately surrendering in the fourth quarter to the
Rockets and Tracy McGrady. McGrady had been considered questionable to
play because of a sore shoulder but delivered a 23-point, 11-rebound,
nine-assist performance that steadied his team down the stretch.
Wolves record: 18-52
Wolves Watch recap
Star Tribune game recap
The Rockets outrebounded the Wolves 58-38 and scored 14 second-chance
points to win for the 19th time in their last 21 home games.
points to win for the 19th time in their last 21 home games.
Scola was effective against the Wolves this season,
helping Houston sweep the season series 3-0. He matched his career high
with 22 points in a game against Minnesota on Jan. 11, which Houston
won 113-82. Wednesday, Scola’s three-point play with 2:34 remaining
gave Houston a 93-82 lead.
helping Houston sweep the season series 3-0. He matched his career high
with 22 points in a game against Minnesota on Jan. 11, which Houston
won 113-82. Wednesday, Scola’s three-point play with 2:34 remaining
gave Houston a 93-82 lead.
The Wolves lost despite Al Jefferson’s 50th
double-double of the season (21 points, 10 rebounds) and his five
blocks, which tied his career high. He has averaged 3.6 blocks in the
past five games.
double-double of the season (21 points, 10 rebounds) and his five
blocks, which tied his career high. He has averaged 3.6 blocks in the
past five games.
It also is the second time this month that NBA commissioner David Stern
is in the house. He is here on a night when the Rockets honor 16-year
veteran Dikembe Mutombo for his playing career and his humanitarian
effort.
is in the house. He is here on a night when the Rockets honor 16-year
veteran Dikembe Mutombo for his playing career and his humanitarian
effort.
