The Dallas Mavericks defeated the visiting Houston Rockets, 129-114, at American Airlines Center on Thursday.

While Houston grabbed the first lead in this game, that was the only time it was competitive. In fact, the Mavs outscored the Rockets by at least six points in each of the first three quarters, getting their lead up to 25 points at times. They also held a double-digit lead for the entirety of the second half. The Mavericks shot 52 percent from the field and 42 percent from three-point range while holding the Rockets to 41 percent from the field and 31 percent from long range. Dallas also out-assisted Houston, 29-18, while outscoring them in fastbreak points, 25-0. The Mavs also recorded eight blocks to the Rockets one.

The Rockets (10-25) were led by Jalen Green, tallying 23 points, four rebounds and four assists. Kevin Porter Jr provided 17 points, four rebounds and seven assists. Jabari Smith amassed 16 points and four boards, while Alperen Sengun accrued 11 points and six boards. Usman Garuba led the bench with nine points, nine rebounds and two steals.

The Mavericks (20-16) were led by Luka Doncic, collecting 35 points, 12 rebounds, 13 assists and two blocks. Christian Wood compiled 21 points, seven rebounds and four blocks. Tim Hardaway Jr totaled 18 points, four rebounds and three steals, while Dwight Powell led the bench with 19 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Spencer Dinwiddie also had 15 points, three rebounds and six assists.

Both teams return to action on Saturday, with Dallas traveling to face the San Antonio Spurs and Houston returning home to play the New York Knicks.