The Dallas Mavericks hosted the Houston Rockets on Saturday. The Mavericks defeated the Rockets 122-109 at the American Airlines Center. Dallas improved to 9-16, while Houston fell to 15-6.
Dallas hosted League Fits Night. The first 5,000 fans received a Cooper Flagg exclusive player pin. One lucky fan with the golden pin won a $250 Dave & Buster’s gift card.
Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets Starters
Saturday’s game showcased a storied rivalry between the two teams. Houston leads the regular season series 105-96. The two teams faced each other three times in the NBA Playoffs, with Dallas holding a 2-1 record.
Dallas’ starting lineup featured Ryan Nembhard, Naji Marshall, Flagg, PJ Washington, and Anthony Davis. Dallas ruled out Kyrie Irving (knee), Dante Exum (knee), Dereck Lively II (foot), Daniel Gafford (ankle), and Klay Thompson (knee).
Houston’s starting lineup featured Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., Clint Capela, and Josh Okogie. Houston ruled out Fred VanVleet (knee), Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle), Tari Eason (oblique), Steven Adams (ankle), and Alperen Sengun (illness).
Mavericks vs. Rockets Recap
Saturday’s game featured an I-45 rivalry with thrilling moments and memorable plays since the Mavericks joined the NBA in 1980. Mavs legend Dirk Nowitzki was in attendance.
Dallas jumped out to a 13-6 lead at 8:06 of the first quarter. Flagg hit an early three-pointer, while Durant got past multiple defenders for an insane layup. Dallas took a 29-26 lead to end the first.
Houston jumped out to an 8-7 lead at 9:03 of the second quarter. Thompson blocked Davis’s shot up to the rim. Dallas picked up the pace to tie the game 40-40 at 6:05. The teams were tied at 57 heading into the break.
Dallas took control in the third quarter. Davis drew a double team that led to a Washington corner three-pointer. Dallas took a 114-100 lead through three quarters.
Houston picked up the pace in the fourth quarter. Aaron Holiday and Reed Sheppard traded three-pointers. Holiday, 29, subsequently drew an and-one. Houston’s strong efforts fell short. Dallas won 122-109 in regulation.
Final Thoughts
Dallas concludes its homestand against the Brooklyn Nets on Friday. Houston returns home to host the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday. Dallas can close out the homestand on a high note, while Houston can easily blow out Los Angeles on their home court.
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