Rockets rout Mavericks 128-110 as Durant scores 30 in season opener

Rockets dominate season opener

Kevin Durant scored 30 points to lead the Houston Rockets to a 128-110 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday. The home team controlled the tempo from the start, establishing a lead that they never relinquished at Toyota Center. Jabari Smith Jr. provided crucial support with a varied scoring attack, while Fred VanVleet orchestrated the offense with 11 assists.

The Rockets finished the game with a record of 1-0, while the visiting Mavericks dropped their first game of the season to fall to 0-1.

Early lead extends

Houston took an early 32-26 lead after the first quarter, with Durant and Smith Jr. hitting key shots to put the game away. The second quarter saw the Rockets pull further ahead, ending the half with a 70-38 advantage. Alperen Sengun was a force in the paint and from beyond the arc, contributing 10 rebounds to anchor the frontcourt.

The Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg scored 32 points in a valiant effort, but the team’s overall offensive output was not enough to keep pace with Houston’s balanced attack.

Third quarter surge

The Rockets continued their momentum into the second half, leading 97-72 entering the fourth quarter. Durant’s ability to create his own shot from anywhere on the floor kept Dallas’ defense off balance. Naji Marshall attempted to keep the Mavericks in the game with 6 assists, but Houston’s depth and efficiency proved too much to overcome.

The crowd of 18,055 witnessed a comprehensive team effort that highlighted the Rockets’ current form.

Final stretch

In the fourth quarter, Houston managed the game effectively, extending their lead to 128-110. Zaccharie Risacher contributed 6 rebounds for Dallas, but the Mavericks could not find a consistent rhythm against Houston’s defensive pressure. The final score reflected the disparity in performance, with the Rockets securing a decisive win in their season opener.

The game marked the beginning of the 2026-27 NBA season for both franchises, setting the stage for the rest of the campaign.

Sources

ESPN