On January 4, 2026, the Dallas Mavericks made a triumphant comeback, outshining the Houston Rockets with a score of 110-104. This victory was a much-needed boost for the Mavericks, who had been on a four-game losing streak, their longest of the season. The game was a showcase of individual brilliance, with Anthony Davis leading the charge with 26 points and 12 rebounds, and Max Christie following suit with 24 points, including a stellar 45.9% shooting from downtown. However, the Rockets, led by Kevin Durant's 34 points, put up a valiant fight, snapping their own four-game winning streak. The game was filled with twists and turns, with the Mavericks' 17-point lead in the fourth quarter shrinking to just 106-101 with 1:07 to play. But it was Christie's dunk that sealed the deal for the Mavericks. The Rockets, already missing Steven Adams due to an ankle sprain, were further hampered by Alperen Sengun's early exit with a sprained right ankle. The Mavericks, despite losing P.J. Washington Jr. early on, managed to outscore the Rockets in the paint and secure the win. The Mavericks' shooting percentage of 55.0% was significantly higher than the Rockets' 38.7%. Cooper Flagg, a Dallas rookie, scored 10 points, his fewest since a two-point game in a loss to Oklahoma City. The Mavericks' next games will be a three-game road trip starting on Tuesday at Sacramento, while the Rockets host Phoenix on Monday. This game was a testament to the Mavericks' resilience and the Rockets' determination, leaving fans eager for the next chapter in this NBA saga.
