Houston Rockets Clinch No. 5 Seed in West Despite Loss to Timberwolves

Rockets still hold the fifth position in the Western Conference standings despite Friday's defeat.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:19am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with players and the court broken down into sharp, angular shapes and planes of color, conveying the intensity and excitement of the matchup.A cubist interpretation of the intense battle between the Rockets and Timberwolves, highlighting the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of the playoff-bound teams.New Orleans Today

The Houston Rockets fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves 136-132 in a close game on Friday, but they have already clinched the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. Amen Thompson led the Rockets with 41 points, while Kevin Durant added 33 points. Despite the loss, Houston remains in fifth place in the standings and will wrap up the regular season against the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday.

Why it matters

The Rockets have secured a playoff spot and will be looking to make a deep run in the postseason. Their matchup against the Grizzlies on Sunday will not affect their seeding, but they will want to end the regular season on a high note.

The details

The Rockets put up a strong effort against the Timberwolves, with Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant both having big games. However, Minnesota's balanced scoring attack, led by Anthony Edwards' 22 points, was too much for Houston to overcome. The Rockets' loss drops their record to 51-30, but they remain in fifth place in the Western Conference standings.

  • The Rockets faced the Timberwolves on Friday, April 10, 2026.
  • The Rockets will play their final regular season game against the Grizzlies on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Amen Thompson

A standout player for the Houston Rockets, Thompson led the team with 41 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists in the loss to the Timberwolves.

Kevin Durant

The veteran forward for the Rockets, Durant scored 33 points and added 7 rebounds and 7 assists in the close defeat.

Anthony Edwards

The Timberwolves' star player, Edwards returned from injury to score 22 points and lead Minnesota to the victory over Houston.

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What they’re saying

“We put up a good fight, but Minnesota just had our number tonight. We'll regroup and come back strong for the playoffs.”

— Amen Thompson, Rockets Guard

What’s next

The Rockets will wrap up the regular season on Sunday against the Grizzlies, but their playoff seeding is already set. They will be looking to build momentum heading into the postseason.

The takeaway

Despite the loss to the Timberwolves, the Rockets have secured the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. They have shown they can compete with the top teams in the league and will be a dangerous opponent in the postseason.