Houston RocketsOpen full analysis
Dallas MavericksOpen full analysis
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Houston Rockets 122–109 on December 6 at the American Airlines Center, staying under the Vegas total of 221.5 points. A.Davis led Dallas with 29 points while B.Williams added 20, as the Mavericks shot 59.8 percent from the field and made 7 three-pointers to establish control. Houston's K.Durant scored 27 points and J.Smith Jr. contributed 22, but the Rockets' 50.6 percent shooting and 10 made threes proved insufficient. The decisive third quarter belonged to Dallas, which outscored Houston 37–20 to build a commanding lead; the Mavericks' defensive rating of 115.1 held firm despite Houston's 37 rebounds and 22 assists. Dallas's 13 steals forced Houston into 18 turnovers, a critical margin that amplified the home team's offensive efficiency rating of 127.3. The Mavericks' balanced attack—22 assists on their own—controlled the tempo throughout. Dallas continues to demonstrate defensive versatility on its home floor while maintaining playoff-caliber execution.
