Rockets Snap Three-Game Losing Streak in Win vs. Short-Handed Mavericks

The Houston Rockets took care of business Friday night to end a three-game losing streak against the short-handed Dallas Mavericks.

HOUSTON — For a team riding a three-game losing streak, coach Ime Udoka understood that the Houston Rockets could not get complacent against the Dallas Mavericks. Due to injuries, the Mavericks came into Toyota Center missing several key players, which included Luka Dončić (quad) and Kyrie Irving (foot).

The Rockets took part in Udoka's message en route to a 122-96 victory Friday night inside the Toyota Center. With the win, the Rockets improved to 12-2 on their homecourt, possessing the third-best home record in the league.

Alperen Şengün had one of his most impressive performances of the season after a subpar outing against the Atlanta Hawks Wednesday night. He finished with 22 points on 8 of 12 shooting, 15 rebounds and three assists. He had 20 points and 10 rebounds at the half.

Jabari Smith Jr. followed up his career performance with 21 points and eight rebounds in the win.

The short-handed Mavericks played the Rockets close during the first quarter (23-17), but Houston was able to take control during the third period. The Rockets erupted for 33 points during the third period while connecting on 45.5 percent shooting from behind the arc.

All five starters scored in double figures for Houston. Jalen Green added 17 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals. Dillon Brooks and Fred VanVleet each added 10 points in the win.

Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. shoots against Dallas Mavericks forward Tim Hardaway Jr. (10) in the first quarter at Toyota Center / Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Whitmore returns from the G League

Rookie forward Cam Whitmore returned to the Rockets lineup following an extensive stint in the G League. He came off the bench at the 2:14 mark of the third quarter and recorded a career-best 14 points, four rebounds and a pair of steals.

Up Next:

The Rockets will complete the second game of a back-to-back Saturday night against the New Orleans Pelicans. They will then return to the Toyota Center for a seven-game homestand which will begin Tuesday against the Indiana Pacers. Tip-off between the Rockets and Pelicans is slated for 7:00 p.m. CDT.