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Houston Rockets Vs. Dallas Mavericks Game Preview

DALLAS, TEXAS - DECEMBER 06: Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks attempts a steal against Jabari Smith Jr. #10 of the Houston Rockets during the game at American Airlines Center on December 06, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Finally, the Houston Rockets get to face the Dallas Mavericks in Houston again. They should also benefit from the presence of Alperen Sengun, who missed the first game in Dallas with an illness and left the second game after just a minute of action. Anthony Davis played in both of those games because he loves nothing more than actually playing against Houston in Dallas. Playing in other games? Not so much.

Dallas has benefitted greatly from the “Rando that goes off against the Rockets” corollary, with Brandon Williams having gone off in both games in the Ft. Worth area. Max Christie went 10-13 in the other game. One rando is allowed (and required by NBA law), but when Dallas gets two randos that go off? They’re spitting in the face of Adam Silver. Also, Klay Thompson already exists and has made more 3s against Houston than any other team in his career.

Cooper Flagg is coming off his best offensive game as a pro, dropping 49 points and grabbing 10 boards in a 123-121 loss to the Charlotte Hornets. Houston’s best shot at winning will be finding a way to keep him in check.