Preview: Wolves vs. Houston

Last update: December 6, 2006 - 7:30 AM

Preview: Tied at 68-68 in Houston on Nov. 28, the Wolves got outscored 14-7 the rest of the way. But a bigger problem was scoring only 47 points through the first three quarters. The Rockets' defense allows a league-stingiest 87.6 points per game and 42.1 field-goal percentage.

Player to watch: Tracy McGrady suffered a concussion Saturday when his head hit teammate Dikembe Mutombo's elbow. He got hurt against the Wolves, too, when Mike James kicked or elbowed him in the left side. In between, McGrady scored 23 points at Phoenix, and was in the starting lineup against Golden State on Tuesday night.

Numbers: The Rockets have outrebounded 12 of 16 opponents and are 7-0 when foes don't reach 90 points. ... Minnesota has been 14.5 points better at Target Center, averaging 98.6 vs. 84.3 on the road.

Injuries: Rockets guards Bob Sura (knee and back injuries) and Kirk Snyder (right hand fracture) have been out.

STEVE ASCHBURNER