The much-anticipated Texas rivalry between the Houston Rockets and the Dallas Mavericks is set to reignite on December 6, 2025. However, this encounter is shaping up to be less of a glamorous star-powered spectacle and more of a gritty test of survival and roster depth. Both franchises enter this high-stakes Western Conference clash carrying significant injury burdens, forcing their coaching staffs to devise improvised game plans.
Rockets' Injury Woes: Frontcourt Depth Severely Tested
Despite holding an impressive 15-5 record and entering as a -7.5 favourite, the Houston Rockets are far from full strength. Compounding their challenge is the fact this game is the second night of a back-to-back, stretching their resources thin. The team's absence list critically targets their interior defence and offensive engine.
Star centre Alperen Sengun, who averages 23.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 7.1 assists, is listed as doubtful due to illness. His potential absence is a massive blow. Veteran big man Steven Adams remains out with right ankle tendinopathy and is not expected back before December 11. Further depleting the frontcourt, Tari Eason (right oblique strain) and Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle surgery) are sidelined.
The backcourt also takes a hit with season-long absentee Fred VanVleet recovering from right knee ACL surgery. In response, heavy responsibility falls on Amen Thompson (17.9 ppg, 7.1 rpg) and Jabari Smith Jr. (14.9 ppg, 2.0 threes per game) to carry the scoring and pace.
Mavericks' Patchwork Lineup: Can Youth and Hustle Prevail?
The situation for the Dallas Mavericks appears even more dire, with their roster severely compromised. The team will be without its primary creator, as Kyrie Irving continues his recovery from left knee surgery. Backup guard Dante Exum is out for the season.
The centre position is a major concern. Dereck Lively II will miss his eighth consecutive game due to right foot injury management, while Daniel Gafford is doubtful with persistent right ankle soreness. Forward P.J. Washington, a consistent contributor averaging 16.0 points and 7.8 rebounds, is questionable with a right ankle sprain.
This leaves rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, who is expected to play through a thumb splint, as a focal point. Flagg, contributing 17.2 points per game, will need to provide both scoring and defensive energy for Dallas to compete.
Game Impact: A Guard-Driven Scramble Awaits
With both teams' centre rotations decimated, this matchup is likely to transform into a fast-paced, guard-oriented scramble. Rebounding battles will hinge on effort and athleticism rather than pure size. The entertainment angle for fans has shifted from marquee star duels to witnessing which team's depth pieces and role players can step up under pressure.
All eyes will be on whether P.J. Washington can grit through his ankle issue for Dallas and if Houston's remaining core, led by Thompson and Smith, can overwhelm a depleted Mavericks squad. The late-afternoon injury reports have set the stage for a tense, unpredictable, and physically demanding showdown that will test the resilience of both Texas rivals.
