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4 thoughts from the Mavericks’ 135-117 preseason loss to the Houston Rockets in Macao

The Dallas Mavericks kicked off their 2026 preseason with a 135-117 loss to the Houston Rockets in Macao, China, using the exhibition as a chance to evaluate their expanded roster. Rookie Morez Johnson Jr.

and Daniel Gafford each hit three-pointers in the opening quarter, but the team struggled offensively beyond that, allowing Houston to build a commanding 23-point lead by halftime. Cooper Flagg emerged as Dallas’ lone bright spot, scoring 19 points and anchoring the defense with early steals, including a highlight-reel alley-oop dunk to spark a brief rally.

Despite late efforts—including a three by Tari Eason—Houston’s Tari Eason (20 points) and Fred VanVleet (17) outpaced the Mavs, who trailed by 20 points at one stretch in the second half. Naji Marshall added 16 points for Dallas, but the team’s offensive cohesion remained a work in progress as they tested new pieces under coach Dusty May’s watchful eye.

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