Published Jan 2, 5:54pm ET by
James Tillman - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Jan 2, 5:54pm ET
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Updated Jan 2, 5:54pm ET
One of the games on Saturday's NBA slate features the Dallas Mavericks hosting the Houston Rockets. Who has the edge in our Mavericks vs Rockets pick?
Following a one-point win against the Nuggets on Dec. 23, Dallas has dropped each of its last four contests, including a 123-108 loss to the Sixers.
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The Mavericks jumped out to a 33-27 lead, thanks to shooting 65 percent from the field in the game's first 12 minutes. Unfortunately, the Sixers seized control of the game for good in the second quarter, outscoring Dallas 41-24 on its way to a 15-point win.
Max Christie scored a team-high 18 points on 7-for-13 shooting from the field. Brandon Williams was the standout player for the bench unit, finishing with 14 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.
After back-to-back losses to Sacramento and LA, the Rockets have reeled off four consecutive wins. Their latest triumph was a decisive 120-96 victory against the Brooklyn Nets.
Houston led 16-5 early and 53-42 at the break. Then, the Rockets started the second half by making their first five 3-pointers, converting eight of their first nine attempts overall.
And a 19-5 burst extended Houston's advantage to 74-49, which effectively put the game out of reach. The win gave the Rockets their first victory at the Barclays Center since 2018.
Three of the Rockets' starters scored at least 20 points. Amen Thompson led the way with 23 points, four rebounds, and three assists.
Kevin Durant added 22 points and a season-high 11 assists. Alperen Sengun contributed 20 points along with six rebounds and six assists.
Here's a look at what you need to know for both teams ahead of this contest.
Houston is a top-five scoring team and ranks in the top 10 at the other end of the court. Additionally, the Rockets have won three of the previous five matchups in this series. Given the trends, Houston is poised to come out on top in this Western Conference showdown.
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Houston Rockets
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