The Oklahoma City Thunder face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves in an intriguing back-to-back matchup, with the first game taking place in Minneapolis. The Thunder, boasting a strong 44-9 record, are looking to build on their recent momentum, having secured a win against Utah. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves, currently at 30-25, are eager to bounce back from a recent loss.

This matchup not only features two competitive teams but also marks the third encounter in a short span, the previous two split evenly. Key players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be vital for the Thunder, while Karl-Anthony Towns will look to lead the Timberwolves. As both teams gear up for this clash, the stakes are high, making for an exciting game for fans and fantasy enthusiasts alike.

In a closely contested matchup, the Minnesota Timberwolves fell to the Houston Rockets, 121-115, despite a stellar performance from Anthony Edwards, who scored 37 points.

The Wolves struggled in the final minutes, missing key shots, including a potential game-tying three from Jaden McDaniels. Jalen Green led the Rockets with 35 points and played a pivotal role in sealing the game. Minnesota's Rudy Gobert was sidelined with back spasms, leaving Naz Reid to shoulder the defensive load but he faced foul trouble.

Mike Conley returned, contributing modestly with five points after a finger injury. The Timberwolves will aim to bounce back against the Oklahoma City Thunder next.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to face the Houston Rockets in an intriguing matchup at the Toyota Center. The Timberwolves, sitting at 31-25, are facing a potential crisis with several starters' availability in question, which could play a crucial role in the game's outcome. Meanwhile, the Rockets, with a record of 34-21, are on a downward trend with a 3-7 record in their last ten games. This game presents an opportunity for Houston to regain momentum as they hope to capitalize on the Timberwolves' thin roster.

As the All-Star break approaches, the Timberwolves' struggle to keep their key players healthy could amplify the pressure on their performance. Current betting odds favor the Rockets, who are expected to cover a 4.5-point spread. Expert predictions suggest that if the Timberwolves' starters are confirmed out, it would be wise to back the Rockets for a decisive win.

As the NBA ramps up for a busy slate following the All-Star break, Friday's nine games promise both excitement and uncertainty, particularly with significant names on the injury report. The Memphis Grizzlies face off against the Orlando Magic, while the New York Knicks take on the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are favored by -8.5 points. The Milwaukee Bucks will challenge the Washington Wizards, and the Miami Heat square off against the Toronto Raptors.

Injury updates are crucial, with Anthony Edwards potentially missing out for the Timberwolves, affecting his team's dynamics and DFS lineup considerations. Rudy Gobert is also in question, while Fred VanVleet is ruled out for the Rockets, opening up opportunities for Aaron Holiday. Elite players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are set to make a significant impact, with both expected to carry their teams and attract DFS attention.

The Houston Rockets resume their season against the Minnesota Timberwolves following the All-Star break, with both teams facing significant injury challenges. The Rockets, who have struggled with a 3-7 record leading into the break, are hopeful for the return of Jabari Smith Jr., who has been sidelined for 22 games due to a fractured hand. His presence is crucial as the Rockets aim to overcome their recent form, which includes a disappointing 127-114 loss to the Timberwolves earlier this month.

On the injury front, the Rockets will be without Fred VanVleet due to an ankle strain, marking a significant setback for the team. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves are dealing with uncertainties as Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert, and Mike Conley are all listed as questionable for the game. The outcome of Friday's matchup could hinge on which team can best navigate their injury woes and regain momentum.