In their first game back from the NBA All-Star break, Jalen Green and the Houston Rockets secured a crucial 121-115 victory over Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday at Toyota Center.
Two of their first three meetings were nail-biters, and their final showdown of the season didn’t disappoint. Jalen Green delivered a stellar 35-point outing, further cementing his reputation as a player who thrives as the season unfolds.
On Friday night, he showcased just how impactful he can be when he’s locked in. Green knocked down 12 of his 24 attempts from the floor, including 5-of-11 from beyond the arc, using his relentless attacking style to propel the Rockets past a Timberwolves squad that leaned heavily on Anthony Edwards.
Edwards racked up 25 points by halftime and reached 34 by the end of the third, but he faltered in the final period, closing the night with 37.
Game respects game for Jalen Green and Anthony Edwards
“I feel like I’m one of the best young guards in the league, and he’s one of the best young guards in the league. He’s a great player, and it was a good game tonight,” Jalen Green said in his post-game interview with SportsCenter.
"I feel like I'm one of the best young guards in the league, and he's one of the best young guards in the league."
Jalen Green shares his thoughts on facing off against Anthony Edwards 💪 pic.twitter.com/g2hEhjLii2
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) February 22, 2025
Green has always carried an unshakable belief in his abilities, and that confidence is now translating into more consistent performances for the Rockets. While he may not yet match Edwards in terms of reliability, Friday night was proof that he can go head-to-head with the Timberwolves star—and emerge victorious.
What makes the Rockets’ rise among the league’s top teams even more impressive is that their young core is leading the charge. Jalen Green’s 35-point outing was backed by standout performances from Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson, while Jabari Smith Jr. made a significant impact off the bench.
Sengun anchored the team with 24 points and 13 rebounds, providing a steady presence, while Thompson delivered another all-around effort with 17 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, and three blocks.
The Rockets surging at the right time
The Rockets remain undefeated at 9-0 this season when Green scores 30 or more points. His efficiency played a key role, especially compared to Edwards, who had dominated the Rockets in the Timberwolves two previous victories, including their Feb. 6 matchup.
However, this time, the Rockets stepped up defensively, with Thompson, Smith, and Dillon Brooks leading the charge to contain Edwards down the stretch.
The Rockets will complete their split back-to-back on Saturday in Utah, with tipoff set for 8:30 p.m. Central.
