Mmbets Game Of The Week: Dallas Mavericks Travel To H-town As Big ‘dogs

DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 03: Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket against Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets during a game at American Airlines Center on January 03, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Dallas Mavericks find themselves in yet another marquee game Saturday, as they will be traveling to Houston to face off with the Rockets. Accordingly, that means we’re set for yet another MMBets Game of the Week. 

The Mavericks come in riding a bit of a roller coaster. After winning five in a row, Dallas has not won since January 22nd, when they beat the Warriors at home by eight. The last three losses have been especially tough, considering they’ve all been at home.

Houston is a very interesting team in their own right. Before their 18-point win at the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday, the Rockets hadn’t won a game by double digits since New Year’s Day, when they beat the Nets by 24. They’ve still been able to win games, but their lack of guard play has been noticeable in this stretch.

The Mavericks lead the season series, two games to one. They have covered each of the three games, as well.

Before we hand out our picks, let’s check the results from last week.

Last week’s results

Los Angeles Lakers 116, Dallas Mavericks 110

David: 2-2 (+$22)

Tyler: 1-3 (-$182)

Well, it was an unfortunate break last week for us. David had Luka Doncic points + rebounds + assists that fell just a half point shy, while Tyler had the same for Cooper Flagg, also falling just a half shy of cashing. We trudge on.

Year to date

David: 27-19 (+$955)

Tyler: 18-29 (-$954)

Overall: 45-48 (+$1)

It ain’t much, but it’s honest work.

Game intangibles

Dallas Mavericks (19-29) at Houston Rockets (29-17)

Tipoff: Set for a bit after 7:30p from the Toyota Center in Houston

How to watch: This is an ABC exclusive, so the sweet tones of Mike Breen and Tim Legler will be your only TV option. 

Game odds as of 11:30 a.m.

Odds provided by the Fanduel Sportsbook and are subject to change. Wager responsibly!

Spread: Houston -11

Over/Under: 223.5 points

Moneyline: Dallas is +370 to pull off the big time upset.

David’s picks

• Mavericks +11 (-110)
• Naji Marshall over 16.5 points (-114)
• Max Christie 15+ points (+140)
• Reed Sheppard 3+ threes made (+126)

The Mavs do not get blown out very often. They weirdly match up well (not horribly?) with Houston, as evidenced by two wins and an eight point loss this season. With no inside presence for the Rockets, Naji should have a field day in the paint. Sheppard should take advantage of the Mavericks horrendous three point defense. Finally, I am betting on a Max Christie bounce back after two lackluster shooting performances.

Tyler’s picks

• Under 223.5 points (-110)
• Kevin Durant over 25.5 points (-128)
• Cooper Flagg under 19.5 points (-112)
• Cooper Flagg over 5.5 rebounds (+110)

I expect a slow paced, grinding type of game much like the first three, so it’s a dead shot under for me. If you haven’t noticed, Kevin Durant has been playing like an MVP this season. And I’m supposed to believe the Mavericks will shut his water off? Finally, Cooper Flagg played his best game of the season against the Hornets, scoring 49. Going from that defense to seeing Amen Thompson for 36 minutes will feel like a different sport. I expect a lower scoring game from him, but the activity will still be there, so I’ll go over on the rebounds.