A thrilling NBA encounter unfolded on January 4, 2026, as the Dallas Mavericks, led by Anthony Davis' 26 points and Max Christie's impressive 24-point haul, overcame the Houston Rockets with a final score of 110-104. This victory snapped a four-game losing streak for the Mavericks, a period that had tied their longest slump of the season. But here's where it gets controversial... despite the Mavericks' dominance in the paint, outscoring the Rockets 66-54, Houston managed to keep the game close with their 17 offensive rebounds and a 15-0 advantage in second-chance points.
The game saw its fair share of injuries, with Houston's Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams both missing due to ankle sprains. The Mavericks also lost their forward, P.J. Washington Jr., early in the game with a sprained right ankle.
Dallas' rookie, Cooper Flagg, had a quieter night than usual, scoring just 10 points, his lowest output since a two-point game against Oklahoma City earlier in the season.
The Mavericks' win, their sixth in the last seven home games, was a testament to their resilience and depth. And this is the part most people miss... it was Christie's crucial dunk with just over a minute left that sealed the deal, showcasing the importance of clutch performances in tight games.
So, what do you think? Was it the Mavericks' depth that won them the game, or did Houston's injuries play a significant role? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Up next, the Rockets host Phoenix on Monday, while the Mavericks hit the road for a three-game trip, starting in Sacramento on Tuesday.
