Dallas Mavericks: What to watch for as Mavs host the Rockets

The Dallas Mavericks have won two straight games entering Saturday’s showdown with the rival Houston Rockets. Superstar Luka Doncic went off for 36 points as the Mavs topped the Spurs in San Antonio on Jan. 22. It was a monster performance to move Dallas to 8-7 on the season.

Saturday is the second of a back-to-back set for both teams. The Rockets defeated the Pistons in Detroit on Friday night behind 20 points from Eric Gordon. Expect both teams to be feeling it on Jan. 23.

Here is a look at how and what fans should be watching for in Saturday’s game between the Mavs and Rockets.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets: How to watch

Start time: 8:00 p.m. CT or 9:00 p.m. ET

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

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

Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets injury updates

The Mavericks have Josh Richardson, Dwight Powell, Maxi Kleber, and Dorian Finney-Smith out in the league’s health and safety protocols. Coach Carlisle said their returns are “uncertain” at this time. Expect all four to be sidelined for Saturday’s game.

The Rockets were without Christian Wood (ankle), John Wall (knee), Dante Exum (calf), and Danuel House Jr. (quarantine) on Friday night. Consider all four players questionable at best to face the Mavs.

Fans should check Twitter just before tipoff for all the latest information. The Mavericks have had two back-to-backs and five games in the past seven days. Do not be surprised to see them rest a player if needed.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets storyline to follow: Can Luka stay hot

In the first meeting this season, Luka Doncic had a 33-point triple-double as the Mavericks topped the Rockets on their home floor. Kristaps Porzingis did not play in that game, and Houston has since traded James Harden to the Nets.

Expect another monster performance from Doncic. He often struggles on the second night of back-to-backs, but the 21-year-old will be ready to dominate the division rival. Luka is averaging a 28-point triple-double over his last ten games. Do not be surprised to see another on Saturday night. Stay tuned.