Houston Rockets Triumph as Mavericks’ Rally Falls Short

In a thrilling NBA encounter, Jalen Green’s stellar performance of 23 points and 12 rebounds, along with Alperen Sengun’s double-double, steered the Houston Rockets to a nail-biting 108-102 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night. Despite a late comeback attempt from the Mavericks, Houston’s determined defense stood strong, leading to a decisive victory for the Rockets.

Rockets Fend Off Mavericks’ Late Comeback

Enjoying a comfortable 23-point cushion towards the end of the third quarter, the Rockets found themselves under pressure as the reigning Western Conference champions reduced the deficit to a mere three points with 60 seconds left on the clock. Dillon Brooks and Tari Eason contributed significantly to the Rockets’ success, adding 17 and 15 points respectively. The Rockets’ bench played a crucial role, outdoing the Mavericks’ reserves with a 33-21 scoreline.

Doncic’s Heroics Not Enough for Dallas

Luka Doncic’s impressive 29-point performance, including a 15-point effort in the final quarter, fell short of clinching the victory for Dallas. Teammate Kyrie Irving was close behind with 28 points, followed by Klay Thompson, who added 12. The Rockets, the third-highest in the NBA for average field goal attempts per game, launched 97 shots against Dallas’ 85.

Mavericks’ Centers Struggle with Fouls

Dallas faced additional challenges as their center duo, Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively, battled with foul troubles. Lively, ending with five fouls, and Gafford with four, only managed a disappointing six rebounds collectively. Houston’s rebound game was strong, outrebounding Dallas 50-37 and dominating them 20-8 in second-chance points.

Defining Moment

Despite Doncic’s successful 3-pointer reducing the gap to a hair’s breadth with 1:08 left, Amen Thompson of the Rockets responded with a decisive fadeaway jumper, maintaining Houston’s lead with 43 seconds left.

Crucial Statistic

Dallas’ poor shooting accuracy, particularly from beyond the arc with a disappointing 2 for 12 in the first half, dug a hole too deep to climb out from.

What’s Next?

The Rockets will be hosting the Warriors on Saturday as they start a three-game homestand. Meanwhile, the Mavericks will be preparing for a home back-to-back game against the Magic on Sunday.