After adding some extra help at the trade deadline, the Houston Rockets (32-23 SU, 25-29-1 ATS) hope they have the right formula for another deep run in the NBA playoffs. The Rockets will test their new lineup this Wednesday when they visit the Minnesota Timberwolves (25-30 SU, 27-28 ATS); ESPN will air this game at 8 PM ET.

As part of a series of moves, Houston acquired veteran SG Iman Shumpert from the Sacramento Kings on Thursday. Shumpert was enjoying a bounce-back year in Sacramento with the minutes he was given, providing a steady hand on defense and a little bit of everything on offense. He’ll take over as a back-up wing for the departed James Ennis III (now with Philadelphia) and an insurance policy in case PG Chris Paul suffers another hamstring injury.

The Timberwolves didn’t make any moves at the trade deadline, and are rapidly falling out of contention in the Western Conference at 4-8 SU and ATS in their last dozen games. Swingman Robert Covington (knee) and guard Tyus Jones (ankle)remain out indefinitely; PG Derrick Rose (ankle) is listed as day-to-day, while the status of guard Jerryd Bayless (toe) is undetermined at press time.