wolves/nba

Preview: The Timberwolves get a chance to make up for their loss at New Jersey on Dec. 30, a night when they were playing for the second time in as many nights and for the fourth time in five nights. In Wolves coach Dwane Casey's own words, his team was "running in mud" during that 100-92 loss. Well, tonight the Wolves will be playing for the third time in four nights, but they will be back at home following Friday's game at Memphis. The Nets have won two consecutive games and five of their past seven.

Players to watch: Nets point guard Jason Kidd has four career triple-doubles against the Wolves. He had his 82nd career triple-double against Chicago on Thursday, an 86-83 New Jersey victory. Nets guard Vince Carter has averaged 22.6 points over his past three games. Randy Foye and Ricky Davis led the Wolves in scoring with 18 points against the Nets in the earlier meeting.

Numbers: The Wolves hold a 17-16 edge over the Nets in the all-time series, including a 12-4 mark in Minnesota. Only two Nets opponents have shot better than 50 percent this season.

Injuries: For the Nets, forward/center Nenad Krstic (knee) is out. Forward/center Cliff Robinson (back) is questionable. For the Wolves, guard/forward Marko Jaric (right thumb) is questionable.

KENT YOUNGBLOOD