The Houston Rockets will fancy their chances of picking up a fourth consecutive win of the season when the Dallas Mavericks visit on Monday. After an 0-2 start, the Rockets have steadied the ship and looked stronger in their recent games. Their dominant 128-101 victory over the Boston Celtics on Saturday marked their third straight win, showcasing their improved form.
Currently, Houston ranks first in offensive rating (126.5) and second in net rating (13.0), reflecting their efficient and effective style of play.
### Dallas Mavericks Recent Form
In contrast, the Mavericks’ inconsistency continues. They suffered a 122-110 defeat to the Detroit Pistons on Sunday, bringing their record to just two wins in the last six games. This downturn has increased pressure on head coach Jason Kidd.
However, a road win at the Toyota Center could provide a much-needed boost for Dallas, especially ahead of a favorable upcoming road stretch against the New Orleans Pelicans, Memphis Grizzlies, and Washington Wizards.
### Injury Reports
Both teams are dealing with injury concerns, though the Mavericks appear to have more players sidelined for the Monday clash.
#### Dallas Mavericks Injury Report
The Mavericks enter the week with several injury issues, with four players expected to miss the game against Houston.
– **Anthony Davis** is pushing hard to return soon after missing the previous game with a calf injury. He is reportedly targeting a return in the upcoming matchup against the Pelicans.
– **Dereck Lively II** (right knee sprain) and **Dante Exum** (right knee) remain ruled out but are expected back in the coming weeks. Lively has played only three games this season and will miss his fourth straight game on Monday. Exum has yet to make his season debut.
– **Kyrie Irving** is unlikely to return until next year but is making significant strides in his recovery. Head coach Jason Kidd expressed optimism about Irving’s return this season, stating, “We can’t wait to get Kai back. Hopefully it happens this year, not next. But we’ll see how things go.”
#### Houston Rockets Injury Report
The Rockets have three players listed on the injury report ahead of the game:
– **Jabari Smith Jr.** faces a late fitness test after suffering an ankle injury in the last game. Smith has started all five games this season, averaging 15.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. His status will be confirmed closer to tipoff.
– **Dorian Finney-Smith**, yet to make his Rockets debut, is also dealing with an ankle injury.
– **Fred VanVleet** remains sidelined with a season-ending ACL injury.
### Outlook
With momentum firmly on their side and strong offensive metrics, the Rockets enter the game as favorites. Meanwhile, the Mavericks will be looking to overcome their injury setbacks and regain confidence on the road.
Monday’s game at Toyota Center promises to be a compelling matchup between two teams heading in different directions early in the season.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/dallas-mavericks-vs-houston-rockets-official-injury-reports-for-tonight-nov-3
