The Houston Rockets tipped off Friday’s game riding a four-game winning streak, and despite missing Amen Thompson had to feel pretty confident going against the injury plagued Dallas Mavericks. They looked that way early forcing the first time out of the game by jumping out in front 16-8. Jalen Green and Tari Eason leading the way in that run, scoring 10 of the first 16 points. however, Dallas would go on a 17-11 run out of that time out, and after on the Rockets only led by two points 27-25.
The Rockets would start to flex their muscle in the second quarter, shooting 15-of-27 from the floor while holding the Mavericks to 9-of-20 from the field. By halftime the Rockets were out-rebounding the Mavericks 34-15, and they shot 42.9 percent from the three-point line, while holding the Mavs to 25 percent from three on 2-of-8 shooting. The Rockets built their lead as high as 16 points and walked into the locker room at halftime with a 13-point lead 62-49. Jalen Green and Tari Eason both lead the way with 12 points each.
The Mavericks came into the game with eight players out and would go into the second half with a ninth player out, after former Rocket Dante Exum left the game with a hand injury. The Rockets would take advantage running away in the third quarter shooting 15-of-28 from the floor and holding Dallas to 10-of-27 shooting. through three quarters the Rockets were shooting 50 percent from the field, including 50 percent shooting from the three-point line. The Rockets went into the fourth quarter leading 99-70.
The Rockets mostly saw the bench unit play in the fourth quarter, but coach Ime Udoka did leave Tari Eason in the game long enough to set a new career high in scoring with 30 points. Jalen Green finished with 23 points in three quarters on 9-of-19 shooting including 4-of-8 from three. Alperen Sengun recorded a double-double with 16 points and 15 rebounds. The Rockets ultimately shot 51.4 percent from the field, snatched 67 rebounds, (+32) and lead by as many as 40 in a 133-96 blowout of the Mavericks. Brandon Williams was the high man for the Mavs with 25 points.
The Rockets win their 42nd game of the season, guaranteeing their first winning season in five years. They will be right back in action tomorrow night versus the Chicago bulls at Toyota Center. Catch the game on Space City Home Network, or listen on Sports Talk 790 AM. Check out the TDS watch along right here on the Dream Shake Game Thread.