Houston Rockets vs Dallas Mavericks Picks and Predictions January 1st 2025

Rockets Seek to Improve Late-Game Execution Against Mavericks

The Houston Rockets return to action on Wednesday, hosting the Dallas Mavericks in a game that highlights Houston’s recent struggles with late-game execution. Coming off back-to-back frustrating losses during a five-game homestand, the Rockets aim to address their late-game offensive woes against a Mavericks squad dealing with significant roster absences.

Rockets’ Late-Game Struggles

The Rockets (9-16) have been plagued by an inability to close games effectively. In two of their most recent losses, Houston saw substantial leads evaporate in the final minutes:

• Against Minnesota (Friday): The Rockets squandered a 16-point lead in the final five minutes, losing 112-109.
• Against Miami (Sunday): Houston managed just 18 points in the fourth quarter, surrendering a 12-point lead en route to a 104-100 loss.

Shooting Woes

The Rockets’ offensive issues have largely stemmed from their perimeter shooting struggles. Currently ranked 28th in the NBA in 3-point shooting (32.7%), Houston’s inability to connect from deep has allowed opponents to clog the paint, disrupting the effectiveness of both Jalen Green’s drives and Alperen Sengun’s interior play.

Head coach Ime Udoka acknowledged the team’s need to improve its offensive approach late in games:

“Scoring at the end in both of those games obviously stands out, and that’s something that has to be addressed,” Udoka said. “We’re guarding well enough, but we are struggling to score at the end.”

Key Players Under Pressure

• Jalen Green: Often the Rockets’ go-to scorer, Green has struggled to find consistency in high-pressure moments.
• Alperen Sengun: While Sengun has been a reliable presence in the paint, he faces frequent double teams late in games, limiting his impact.

Houston will also be without Amen Thompson, suspended for his role in an altercation during the Miami game, further complicating their rotation.

Mavericks Face Challenges Without Luka Doncic

The Mavericks (16-17) have been dealing with a depleted roster, highlighted by the absence of Luka Doncic, who is sidelined for at least a month with a calf strain. Dallas also missed Kyrie Irving (shoulder), Klay Thompson (illness), and Dereck Lively II (hip) in their 110-100 loss to the Sacramento Kings on Monday.

Despite these challenges, Dallas showed resilience with a makeshift lineup, as P.J. Washington and Spencer Dinwiddie combined for 58 points while logging heavy minutes.

Rotation in Flux

Dallas has used 15 different starting lineups this season, and head coach Jason Kidd has been forced to rely on his depth to keep the team competitive.

“We felt confident with the group we went out there with,” Kidd said. “We’re just trying to find a way with the bodies that we have.”

The Mavericks have lost three of their last four games and are seeking stability as they wrap up a four-game road trip in Houston.

Keys to the Game

For the Rockets

1. Improve Perimeter Shooting: Houston must find a way to increase its 3-point efficiency to prevent opponents from crowding the paint.
2. Finish Strong: Avoid the late-game collapses that have defined their recent losses.
3. Limit Turnovers: Careless turnovers have cost Houston crucial possessions in tight games.

For the Mavericks

1. Lean on Dinwiddie and Washington: With multiple starters out, Dallas needs its remaining playmakers to shoulder the scoring load.
2. Defensive Focus: Contain Houston’s Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, especially in transition and post play.
3. Control the Pace: Dallas should aim to slow the game down to mitigate Houston’s athleticism.

See who’s favored to take it all in NBA Championship Odds & Predictions!

Game Outlook

Both teams enter this matchup with something to prove. For Houston, it’s an opportunity to restore confidence by executing better in late-game situations. For Dallas, the focus is on adapting to a constantly shifting rotation while staying competitive in a tightly contested Western Conference.

Houston’s ability to capitalize on Dallas’ short-handed roster could prove decisive, but the Mavericks’ resilience makes this a game to watch.