Houston Rockets vs. Dallas Mavericks game preview

Houston Rockets Tickets

Since there's two straight games against the Mavs, I'll probably just leave this preview up for both games.

These are big games for both teams. The Mavs are hanging around, only 5 games out of 8th place. The Rockets have to take advantage of a team below .500. The Mavericks aren't better than they are, but recently the Mavericks have picked up their intensity level while the Rockets have dropped off considerably since the trade deadline.

This isn't a reverse jinx. All advantages are based on how the Mavs seem to always play against us. Why does every Mav play way better when they play us? I watch them against other teams and they suck. Then suddenly they play the Rockets and it's like they're a 1 seed. Ridiculous. Even with You-Know-Who gone, I still hate them so much.

Sunday tip-off at 6:00pm CST.

Wednesday tip-off at 7:30pm CST.

PG: Jeremy Lin vs. Darren Collison

Collison will split time with former Rocket Mike James.

For the Rockets, these games mark Aaron Brooks' return. Maybe he'll do this to them again.

Cold-blooded Aaron Brooks hits game-icing threes (via clutchfansDOTnet)

Advantage: Dallas

SG: James Harden vs. O.J. Mayo

Mayo had the Rockets' number earlier this year, dropping approximately 200 points on the good guys. I hate him.

Advantage: Dallas

SF: Chandler Parsons vs. Shawn Marion

I also hate Marion.

Advantage: Dallas

PF: Donatas Motiejunas vs. Dirk Nowitzki

Don't get me started.

Advantage: Dallas

C: Omer Asik vs. Chris Kaman

He's going for 50/25 tonight.

Advantage: Dallas

Bench:

Mike James is a good veteran point guard. Vince Carter has revived his career in Dallas. Elton Brand is a great backup center. And Jae Crowder is a physical and athletic presence.

The Rockets have Patrick Beverley, Carlos Delfino, Thomas Robinson, Greg Smith

Advantage: Dallas

Prediction: The Rockets can't stop the Mavs from doing Mavs things, lose 130-105 both times.

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