Rockets Dominate Opener in Houston
The Houston Rockets opened the 2026-27 season with a commanding 128-110 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, October 21, at Toyota Center. The home team established an early lead that they never relinquished, finishing the night with a 1-0 record while the visitors fell to 0-1.
A crowd of 18,055 witnessed a balanced offensive effort from Houston, led by a pair of stars who each reached the 30-point plateau.
Durant and Smith Drive Offense
Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. were the primary engines for the Rockets, both scoring 30 points in the win. Durant displayed his range and finishing ability, contributing significantly across multiple quarters with dunks, jumpers, and free throws. Smith Jr. matched him in scoring, hitting threes, driving to the rim, and finishing at the line.
Their combined 60 points accounted for nearly half of Houston’s total output. Fred VanVleet orchestrated the offense with 11 assists, finding open teammates for high-percentage shots throughout the game. Alperen Sengun provided a strong interior presence, grabbing 10 rebounds and adding crucial points near the basket.
Mavericks Struggle to Keep Pace
The Mavericks managed to score 110 points but could not overcome the Rockets' efficiency. Cooper Flagg led Dallas in scoring with 32 points, showing flashes of brilliance with three-pointers and drives to the hoop. Naji Marshall supported the backcourt with 6 assists, while Zaccharie Risacher contributed 6 rebounds.
However, the visitors struggled to maintain consistent offensive rhythm against Houston’s defense. The Rockets controlled the tempo, leading 32-26 after the first quarter and extending the gap to 70-38 by the end of the second period. Although Dallas attempted a comeback in the third quarter, the Rockets' lead remained comfortable, and they closed out the fourth quarter with ease.
Season Kickoff Complete
This game marked the first for both teams in the new season. The Rockets’ 128-110 win sets a strong tone for their campaign, showcasing a versatile offense capable of scoring from all over the floor. The Mavericks will look to regroup and improve their defensive execution as they head into their next matchup.
The performance at Toyota Center highlighted the depth and talent of the Houston roster, with multiple players making significant contributions beyond the top scorers. The final score of 128-110 reflects a complete team effort from the home side.
Sources
ESPN
