One game after looking like they couldn’t guard anyone, the Rockets played with energy and enthusiasm on the defensive end, particularly in the second half, to spark a 106-98 victory over the Dirk Nowitzki-less Mavericks.
The Rockets were led in scoring by Trevor Ariza’s 27 points. He shot 8-12 from the field and 5-7 from deep and also pitched in 4 rebounds and a steal to bounce back from a tough opening game against the Lakers.
James Harden finished with 26 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists, and despite starting off slow, scoring zero points in the opening frame, it was his three consecutive triples to close the third period that really broke open the game for the Rockets.