Dallas Mavericks: What to watch for in first meeting with Rockets

Dallas Mavericks: What to watch for in first meeting with the Rockets

The Dallas Mavericks are facing a second night of a back-to-back for the first time in the 2020-2021 season as they travel to Houston to do battle against the rival Rockets. It will be the first meeting against former assistant coach Stephen Silas, who has taken over as the head in Houston. The status of the two stars will be the talking point, though.

Luka Doncic missed Sunday’s game with a quad contusion. Mavs coach Rick Carlisle called him “day-to-day” and stopped short of ruling Luka out against Houston. Rockets superstar James Harden also missed their last game with an ankle injury. More on both players to come.

Here is how and why Mavs fans should watch Monday’s game.

Dallas Mavericks at Houston Rockets: How to watch

Start time: 7:00 p.m. CT or 8:00 p.m. ET

How to watch: NBA TV (National), Fox Sports Southwest (Dallas Market), AT&T SportsNet Southwest (Houston Market)

Watch online: Fox Sports Go (Dallas Mavericks), NBA League Pass

Dallas Mavericks at Houston Rockets injury updates

The Mavs did not submit an injury report because they played in Chicago on Sunday night. Fans should consider Luka Doncic questionable with his quad injury. Kristaps Porzingis will remain out for Dallas. The rest of the report is up in the air as of this writing.

The Rockets have listed James Harden as questionable with an ankle sprain on the NBA’s official injury report. Consider the superstar 50-50 to play on Monday. Mason Jones is doubtful with Chris Clemons ruled out for Houston.

Fans should be sure to check Twitter before tipoff for any late-breaking injury information, plus updates on the two superstars in this game.

Dallas Mavericks at Houston Rockets storyline to follow: Luka’s health

Fans are hoping to get a better picture of where Luka Doncic stands heading into the third week of the season. The Mavs need him back in the lineup, especially as a difficult stretch of games lies ahead.

Expect Doncic to return in short order and lead the Dallas Mavericks to plenty of victories. Kristaps Porzingis is already practicing and nearing a return as well. At full strength, nobody is looking forward to facing the Mavericks. Stay tuned for what promises to be a wild season.