Rockets Defeat Mavericks in Season Opener
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 8:30 PM ET · Toyota Center (Houston)
Houston Rockets 128, Dallas Mavericks 110, final. Our NBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Dallas Mavericks vs Houston Rockets?
Houston Rockets beat Dallas Mavericks 128-110 at Toyota Center (Houston) on October 21, 2026.
Who was favored in Dallas Mavericks vs Houston Rockets?
Houston Rockets were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -425 (about 81% implied). The favorite won.
In a decisive season opener, the Houston Rockets triumphed over the Dallas Mavericks with a final score of 128 to 110 at the Toyota Center in Houston. This victory marks the Rockets' second consecutive win against the Mavericks in their recent meetings, extending their lead in the season series to 1-0. The Rockets showcased their offensive prowess, scoring an impressive 128 points, while the Mavericks struggled to keep pace, managing only 110.
The Rockets entered this game with a strong recent form, boasting a record of 9-1 over their last ten games, including a home record of 5-1. They have averaged 123.6 points scored per game while allowing just 108.4 points, indicating a solid defensive performance alongside their offensive capabilities. Their last game before this victory was a win against the Memphis Grizzlies, where they secured a commanding 132-101 victory. In contrast, the Mavericks have had a rocky stretch, recording a 3-7 record in their last ten games, which included a disappointing away record of 1-5. They averaged 116.8 points scored but allowed a concerning 124.3 points per game, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities.
Historically, the matchup between these two teams has been competitive, with the Rockets leading the head-to-head record at 2-2 this season. Their previous encounters have been closely contested, with the Rockets winning their last meeting on February 1, 2026, by a narrow margin of 111-107. The Mavericks had previously taken a win against the Rockets earlier in the season, which added to the anticipation of this matchup.
In terms of injuries, both teams faced significant challenges. The Rockets were without Steven Adams due to a calf injury, while the Mavericks were missing several key players, including Jett Howard, Caleb Martin, Tarik Biberovic, Dereck Lively II, Santi Aldama, all of whom were out for various injuries. The absence of these players likely impacted the Mavericks' performance, as they struggled to maintain their offensive rhythm.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, had the Rockets favored by 9.5 points with a total set at 230.5. The odds reflected the Rockets' strong home advantage and recent form, while the Mavericks were seen as the underdogs. The home moneyline for the Rockets was set at -425, while the Mavericks were at +330.
The game conditions were favorable for basketball, with a lively atmosphere at the Toyota Center, which typically boosts the home team's performance. Fans witnessed a high-scoring affair, with the Rockets effectively utilizing their offensive strategies to pull ahead.
As the game unfolded, the Rockets demonstrated their depth and versatility. Key moments included a series of scoring plays in the fourth quarter that showcased their ability to maintain control of the game. Notable plays included Marcus Sasser's running jump shot and Jabari Smith Jr.'s three-pointer, both contributing to the Rockets' substantial lead.
Overall, the Rockets' victory against the Mavericks not only highlights their strong start to the season but also raises questions about the Mavericks' ability to compete without their key players. The Rockets will look to build on this momentum, while the Mavericks will need to regroup and address their defensive issues as they move forward in the season.
What we said beforehand
The Houston Rockets will host the Dallas Mavericks at the Toyota Center on October 22, 2026, in what promises to be an intriguing matchup as both teams look to kick off their seasons on a high note. This game is notable not only for the rivalry between the two Texas teams but also for the contrasting recent forms of each side. The Rockets enter the game with a perfect home record of 5-1 over their last six home games, while the Mavericks have struggled on the road, posting a 1-5 record in their last six away games.
In their last five games, the Rockets have a record of 4-1, with their most recent result being a victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, where they won 116-89. They also faced the Mavericks twice recently, winning one game 135-117 and losing another 132-115. The Rockets have averaged 122.6 points scored in their last five games while allowing 112.0 points. In contrast, the Mavericks have a record of 2-3 in their last five games, recently defeating the Chicago Bulls 149-128 but losing to the New Orleans Pelicans and the Atlanta Hawks in their last two outings. The Mavericks have averaged 122.6 points scored but have allowed 124.6 points during this stretch, indicating a defensive vulnerability.
Home-court advantage has historically favored the Rockets in this matchup, as they have won two of the last four meetings with the Mavericks, including a close win earlier this year. The Rockets won their last matchup at home 111-107 and also secured a victory in November 2025 with a score of 110-102. The Mavericks, however, have had their successes as well, winning 110-104 in an away game earlier in the season.
In terms of injuries, both teams will be missing key players. The Rockets will be without Steven Adams due to a calf injury. The Mavericks face a more significant challenge with multiple players out, including Jett Howard (calf), Caleb Martin (thumb), Tarik Biberovic (heel), Dereck Lively II (foot), and Santi Aldama (knee). The absence of these players could impact the Mavericks' performance, particularly on the offensive end.
The betting market reflects the Rockets' status as favorites, with DraftKings listing the spread at HOU -9.5 and a total of 230.5 points for the game. The moneyline odds are set at -425 for the Rockets and +330 for the Mavericks, indicating a strong expectation for the Rockets to win.
As the teams prepare for this season opener, fans should watch for the Rockets' offensive efficiency, particularly given their recent scoring average of 123.6 points per game at home. The Mavericks will need to address their defensive issues if they hope to compete effectively. With both teams eager to start the season positively, this matchup is set to be a compelling contest.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | HOU -9.5 | 230.5 o -102 / u -118 | Dallas Mavericks +330 · Houston Rockets -425 |
Injury report
- Steven AdamsOutCalfHouston Rockets
- Jett HowardOutCalfDallas Mavericks
- Caleb MartinOutThumbDallas Mavericks
- Tarik BiberovicOutHeelDallas Mavericks
- Dereck Lively IIOutFootDallas Mavericks
- Santi AldamaOutKneeDallas Mavericks
Leaders
- PointsKevin Durant30Houston Rockets
- AssistsFred VanVleet11Houston Rockets
- ReboundsAlperen Sengun10Houston Rockets
- PointsCooper Flagg32Dallas Mavericks
- AssistsNaji Marshall6Dallas Mavericks
- ReboundsZaccharie Risacher6Dallas Mavericks
Recent form
Houston Rockets
Last 10: 9-1Streak W1123.6 scored · 108.4 allowed per game5-1 at home
- W132-101vs Memphis GrizzliesApr 13
- L132-136vs Minnesota TimberwolvesApr 11
- W113-102vs Philadelphia 76ersApr 10
- W119-105at Phoenix SunsApr 8
- W117-116at Golden State WarriorsApr 6
- W140-106vs Utah JazzApr 4
- W119-113vs Milwaukee BucksApr 2
- W111-94vs New York KnicksApr 1
- W134-102at New Orleans PelicansMar 29
- W119-109at Memphis GrizzliesMar 28
Dallas Mavericks
Last 10: 3-7Streak W1116.8 scored · 124.3 allowed per game1-5 away
- W149-128vs Chicago BullsApr 13
- L120-139at San Antonio SpursApr 11
- L107-112at Phoenix SunsApr 9
- L103-116at LA ClippersApr 8
- W134-128vs Los Angeles LakersApr 5
- L127-138vs Orlando MagicApr 4
- L99-123at Milwaukee BucksApr 1
- L94-124vs Minnesota TimberwolvesMar 31
- W100-93at Portland Trail BlazersMar 28
- L135-142at Denver NuggetsMar 26
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | - | 0 | W1 | 1.000 | 1 |
| Houston | - | 0 | W1 | 1.000 | 1 |
| New Orleans | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
| San Antonio | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
| Dallas | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
Box score
| Stat | Dallas Mavericks | Houston Rockets |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 41-79 | 47-88 |
| Field goal % | 52 | 53 |
| Three-pointers | 11-37 | 16-36 |
| Three-point % | 30 | 44 |
| Free throws | 17-26 | 18-25 |
| Free throw % | 65 | 72 |
| Rebounds | 33 | 42 |
| Offensive rebounds | 8 | 17 |
| Defensive rebounds | 25 | 25 |
| Assists | 20 | 32 |
| Steals | 12 | 11 |
| Blocks | 4 | 2 |
| Turnovers | 21 | 15 |
| Team turnovers | 0 | 1 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 2 |
| Points off turnovers | 32 | 19 |
| Fast-break points | 17 | 29 |
| Points in the paint | 52 | 50 |
| Fouls | 23 | 20 |
| Largest lead | 5 | 37 |
| Lead changes | 7 | 7 |
| Time in front | 9 | 84 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter65-95Marcus Sasser makes 23-foot running jump shot (Kyrie Irving assists)
- 3rd Quarter67-95Cooper Flagg makes 10-foot pullup jump shot
- 3rd Quarter67-97Jabari Smith Jr. makes 14-foot jumper (Reed Sheppard assists)
- 3rd Quarter69-97Cooper Flagg makes 9-foot running jump shot
- 3rd Quarter72-97Kyrie Irving makes 25-foot three pointer
- 3rd Quarter74-97Marcus Sasser makes 14-foot driving floating jump shot (Cooper Flagg assists)
- 3rd Quarter74-100Marcus Smart makes 28-foot three point jumper (Reed Sheppard assists)
- 3rd Quarter76-100Kyrie Irving makes 5-foot layup (Zaccharie Risacher assists)
- 4th Quarter77-100Cooper Flagg makes technical free throw
- 4th Quarter78-100Cooper Flagg makes technical free throw
- 4th Quarter78-103Reed Sheppard makes 29-foot three point jumper (Amen Thompson assists)
- 4th Quarter80-103Cooper Flagg makes running layup
- 4th Quarter83-103Marcus Sasser makes 24-foot three point jumper (Zaccharie Risacher assists)
- 4th Quarter85-103Marcus Sasser makes 11-foot driving floating jump shot
- 4th Quarter86-103Marcus Sasser makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter86-106Jabari Smith Jr. makes 24-foot three point jumper (Bogdan Bogdanovic assists)
- 4th Quarter86-108Kevin Durant makes 9-foot two point shot (Fred VanVleet assists)
- 4th Quarter87-108Daniel Gafford makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter88-108Daniel Gafford makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter88-111Fred VanVleet makes 27-foot three point jumper (Kevin Durant assists)
- 4th Quarter90-111Cooper Flagg makes 13-foot fade away jump shot
- 4th Quarter91-111Cooper Flagg makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter92-111Cooper Flagg makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter92-113Marcus Smart makes 4-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter94-113Zaccharie Risacher makes 1-foot dunk (Max Christie assists)
- 4th Quarter96-113Zaccharie Risacher makes 2-foot running dunk
- 4th Quarter96-116Kevin Durant makes 25-foot three point jumper (Amen Thompson assists)
- 4th Quarter98-116Naji Marshall makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter98-118Jabari Smith Jr. makes 11-foot turnaround jump shot (Fred VanVleet assists)
- 4th Quarter100-118Cooper Flagg makes 17-foot step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter100-119Kevin Durant makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter100-120Kevin Durant makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter103-120Marcus Sasser makes 25-foot running jump shot
- 4th Quarter103-122Amen Thompson makes 9-foot driving floating jump shot
- 4th Quarter105-122Naji Marshall makes 9-foot driving floating jump shot
- 4th Quarter105-125Jabari Smith Jr. makes 24-foot three point jumper
- 4th Quarter106-125Moussa Cisse makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter108-125Moussa Cisse makes alley oop layup (Naji Marshall assists)
- 4th Quarter108-128Isaiah Crawford makes 23-foot three point jumper (Bogdan Bogdanovic assists)
- 4th Quarter110-128Naji Marshall makes 2-foot turnaround jump shot
Win probability
Above the line favours Houston Rockets, below favours Dallas Mavericks.
Venue
- Toyota Center (Houston)Houston, TX
- Attendance18055
- OfficialsJames Williams, Gediminas Petraitis, Evan Scott
Elsewhere
- Rockets' Tari Eason ejected after shoving Mavericks' P.J. Washington in back
- Durant and Smith each score 30 points to power the Rockets past the Mavericks 128-110 in the opener
- Ty Jerome' s career-high 45 points leads Grizzlies to a 123-103 victory over Jazz
- Indiana Pacers vs. New Orleans Pelicans: Game Highlights
- Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors: Game Highlights
- Kawhi Leonard scores 23 points in Toronto return as Raptors rout Bulls
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