The Houston Rockets defeated the host Minnesota Timberwolves, 131-124, at Target Center on Friday evening.

The Rockets got out to a great start on the road, with a 36-26 lead after one quarter. The Timberwolves came out stronger in the second and cut it to a three-point game by halftime. They carried the momentum into the third quarter and rallied ahead to a six-point lead, four minutes into the quarter. However, the Rockets outscored the hosts 27-11 through the rest of the quarter, to take a 10-point lead into the final frame. The Timberwolves did not back down and managed to cut it back to a two-point game early in the fourth. They kept it close the rest of the way, but the Rockets stayed a step ahead and held on for their second straight win, while this marks the eighth straight loss for the Timberwolves.

Russell Westbrook led the Rockets with 45 points, 10 assists, six rebounds and a steal. James Harden was quiet, with 12 points, five assists, four rebounds and three blocks, while Eric Gordon totalled 27 points, five rebounds and three assists. The Rockets shot 52 percent from the field, including 11-of-32 from long range.

Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves with 30 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and two blocks, in 27 minutes. Andrew Wiggins added 28 points, five rebounds, three assists and a steal, while Josh Okogie chipped in 17 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals. The Timberwolves shot 49 percent from the field, including 11-of-32 from deep.

The Timberwolves (15-30) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Thunder on Saturday. The Rockets (28-16) take on the Nuggets in Denver on Sunday.