Timberwolves Secure Playoff Spot, Await First-Round Opponent

Anthony Edwards' return and Terrence Shannon Jr.'s breakout performance propel Minnesota to crucial win over Rockets

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:39am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the dynamic energy and scoring action of a basketball game, with players' forms dissolving into colorful brushstrokes.The Timberwolves' high-octane offense and resilient performance against the Rockets showcase the team's potential for a deep playoff run.Denver Today

The Minnesota Timberwolves' 136-132 road victory over the Houston Rockets on Friday night was a pivotal moment that secured their playoff spot in the Western Conference. With Anthony Edwards back in the lineup after a week-long absence, the Wolves demonstrated their resilience and depth, led by Edwards' 22 points and Terrence Shannon Jr.'s career-high 23 points off the bench. The win eliminated the possibility of facing the Rockets in the first round and set up a potential matchup with either the Denver Nuggets or the Los Angeles Lakers, who are vying for the No. 4 seed.

Why it matters

The Timberwolves' win not only clinched their playoff berth but also provided valuable insight into the team's depth and the development of key players like Anthony Edwards and Terrence Shannon Jr. The playoff picture remains fluid, with the Nuggets and Lakers battling for the No. 4 seed, and the Spurs potentially influencing the first-round matchups. This sets the stage for an exciting postseason run for the Timberwolves, who will look to capitalize on their momentum and make a deep playoff push.

The details

With Anthony Edwards returning to the lineup after a week-long absence, the Timberwolves demonstrated their resilience and depth in the victory over the Rockets. Edwards scored 22 points on 7-of-14 shooting, showcasing his continued growth as a leader and scorer. Terrence Shannon Jr. also had a breakout performance, scoring a career-high 23 points off the bench, providing a much-needed confidence boost after dealing with late-season injuries. Kyle Anderson also had a strong game, contributing 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 9 assists, highlighting his versatility and all-around game.

  • The Timberwolves' 136-132 road win over the Rockets took place on Friday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Timberwolves will close out the regular season on Sunday, April 13, 2026, against the New Orleans Pelicans.

The players

Anthony Edwards

The Timberwolves' star player, who returned to the lineup after a week-long absence and scored 22 points in the win over the Rockets.

Terrence Shannon Jr.

A Timberwolves bench player who had a career-high 23 points in the win over the Rockets, providing a much-needed confidence boost after dealing with late-season injuries.

Kyle Anderson

A versatile veteran player for the Timberwolves, who contributed 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 9 assists in the win over the Rockets, showcasing his all-around game and leadership.

Nikola Jokic

The star player for the Denver Nuggets, who are vying for the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference and a potential first-round matchup with the Timberwolves.

LeBron James

The star player for the Los Angeles Lakers, who are also in the mix for the No. 4 seed and a potential first-round matchup with the Timberwolves.

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What they’re saying

“Anthony's return was huge for us. He's a leader on this team, and his presence on the court really energizes the rest of the guys.”

— Chris Finch, Head Coach, Minnesota Timberwolves

“I just tried to come in and do my job, and it was great to see the ball go in the hoop. Hopefully, I can keep this momentum going into the playoffs.”

— Terrence Shannon Jr., Timberwolves Guard

What’s next

The Timberwolves will close out the regular season on Sunday, April 13, 2026, against the New Orleans Pelicans. Their first-round playoff opponent will be determined by the outcomes of the final games between the Denver Nuggets and the San Antonio Spurs, and the Los Angeles Lakers and the Utah Jazz.

The takeaway

The Timberwolves' win over the Rockets showcased the team's depth and resilience, with Anthony Edwards' return and Terrence Shannon Jr.'s breakout performance providing a boost. As the playoff picture remains fluid, the Timberwolves will look to capitalize on their momentum and make a deep postseason run, regardless of their first-round opponent.