Germantas Kneita

The last time Alperen Sengun went up against Rudy Gobert and the Minnesota Timberwolves, he has issues offensively — managing 16 points. With the Gobert listed as questionable to play due to back spasms, the Turkish center could be in for an explosive performance. He is currently averaging 25.3 points per game against on 52.5% shooting, both marks exceeding his season averages in those categories. Sengun will likely spend more time facing off against Naz Reid, who does not provide the same type of rim protection as Gobert — averaging under a block per game on the season. Sengun thrives scoring in the low post thanks to his wide array moves near the basket. Not having to have to go up against the length of Gobert should help him put together a strong scoring performance.

Reid delivered several impressive rebounding efforts in the leadup to the all-star break. He has recorded 8.8 rpg in February so far and has hit double-digit boards in 4 of his last 6 games. In his last outing in which Gobert did not take the floor, Reid grabbed 14 rebounds. With the Frenchman potentially sidelined here, Reid should play an equally large role in pulling down misses for the Timberwolves. Over the last 10 games the Rockets are dead last in the league in true shooting percentage, which should provide Reid with plenty of defensive rebounding opportunities.

His direct matchup, Sengun, is just a 23 percent from beyond the arc, so Houston’s big man is unlikely force Reid to have to step out of the paint — giving him great rebounding position throughout the night. He managed 38 minutes of playing time in the last outing Gobert missed and similar minutes tonight will probably allow him to hit double-digit boards.