The Mavericks did not just maul the Rockets, as they had seemed certain to through most of the night before the Rockets made one third-quarter run to within a chance. They taunted them with what they have and the Rockets lack.
With Chris Paul and Gerald Green out again, the Rockets' threadbare bench had been reduced to rookies and a G-Leaguer turned bright spot.
The starters had their own difficulties to be sure, but they made a move and were in the game.
That was enough for Dallas coach Rick Carlisle to begin the fourth quarter entirely with reserves.