Harden, Rockets get ‘rocked’

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — For the Houston Rockets, finally facing a challenge from Minnesota and a hostile crowd on the road was a good test to prepare for the postseason.

The Timberwolves, meanwhile, are left holding on for dear life in a tightening playoff race.

James Harden had 34 points and 12 assists and helped the Rockets fend off a fourth-quarter rally and beat the Timberwolves 129-120 on Sunday night. The win was Houston’s 26th in 28 games, and it dropped Minnesota into the eighth playoff spot in the Western Conference.

“It’s good for us, man,” Harden said. “We needed it. We needed to be in games like that. Obviously, having a big lead and losing it, we can’t let it happen, but if it does we’ve got to make sure we can keep our composure and get a good shot every time.” Oklahoma City 132, Toronto 125 New Orleans 108, Boston 89 Portland 122, L.A. Clippers 109