Houston Rockets vs Dallas Mavericks Picks and Predictions March 14th 2025

Rockets Put Win Streak Up Against Defense-Challenged Mavericks

The Houston Rockets look to extend their four-game winning streak when they continue their homestand against the struggling Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. With veteran point guard Fred VanVleet back in the lineup, Houston hopes to capitalize on Dallas’ recent defensive struggles.

Green Steps Up in Houston’s Backcourt

VanVleet played just his second game since recovering from an ankle injury in Wednesday’s 111-104 victory over the Phoenix Suns. In his absence, Jalen Green took on a larger role, delivering a game-high 29 points along with four assists while committing only two turnovers.

Looking for Smart NBA Betting Insights? Check Out the Latest NBA Picks

“He’s taking what they’re giving him,” Rockets coach Ime Udoka said. “He’s making the right reads, getting off the ball and sharing it, and obviously in attack mode as well.”

Green’s expanded role has been vital, as the Rockets continue to play without Amen Thompson (ankle) and Reed Sheppard (thumb). Thompson, who stepped in as a lead guard in VanVleet’s absence, suffered an ankle injury on March 8, while Sheppard fractured his thumb and is expected to miss the next four weeks.

With VanVleet still working his way back to full strength, Houston will continue leaning on Green’s offensive production.

Find Winning Strategies from Experts! Explore the Best Handicappers Here

Mavericks’ Defensive Woes

Dallas enters Friday’s contest having lost six of its last seven games, including a 126-116 defeat to the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday. The Mavericks allowed San Antonio to shoot 53.2% from the field and score 66 points in the paint, exposing their lack of interior defense.

“They attacked everybody,” Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said. “They just put their head down and drove it. Rim protection is limited right now. We just have to do a better job.”

Dallas is missing key frontcourt players, including Anthony Davis (adductor), Daniel Gafford (knee), and Dereck Lively II (ankle). Without those rim protectors, the Mavericks have struggled to contain dribble penetration and second-chance points.

Can Houston Keep Rolling?

Get Expert NBA Picks Now!

Join Now!

Key Matchup: Rockets’ Attacking Guards vs. Mavs’ Defense

Houston’s ability to drive to the rim could be a deciding factor in this matchup. Green, VanVleet, and other Rockets slashers will look to exploit Dallas’ weak interior defense.

Brandon Williams has emerged as a bright spot for the Mavericks, scoring 19 points with six assists against San Antonio, two games after a career-high 31-point effort against Memphis. But without a reliable defensive presence, Dallas faces an uphill battle.