The Houston Rockets continued their impressive rise in the Western Conference, securing a 110–102 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night at Toyota Center. The win marked Houston’s fourth straight, improving their record to 4–2, and showcased the team’s growing confidence and chemistry.
But the night belonged to Amen Thompson, who delivered his best performance of the season. The 21-year-old guard scored 27 points on efficient shooting, attacking the rim with confidence and controlling the pace in the game’s closing moments. His relentless energy and aggressive drives became the difference-maker in what turned into one of Houston’s most complete wins so far.
Explosive and Agressive, Amen Thompson Shines as Rockets Beat Mavericks
Thompson’s athleticism has never been in question. But on Monday, his maturity and composure stood out just as much as his explosiveness.
Facing a Dallas team missing Anthony Davis due to a strained calf, Thompson wasted no time asserting himself, scoring in transition and pushing defenders off balance with his first step. He finished with 27 points, five rebounds, and four assists, shooting efficiently inside the arc and setting the tone for Houston’s up-tempo offense.
His biggest moments came late in the fourth quarter, where he calmly sank key free throws and helped seal the win with a crucial defensive stop. With just 27 seconds left, Thompson blocked Cooper Flagg’s three-point attempt before Tari Eason punctuated the night with a fast-break dunk.
Head coach Ime Udoka praised the young guard afterward: “Amen’s aggression was exactly what we needed. He’s learning when to attack and when to create, and tonight he balanced that perfectly.”
Sengun and Durant Deliver Veteran Stability
While Thompson’s breakout stole the headlines, Alperen Sengun and Kevin Durant anchored the Rockets with their usual consistency. Sengun turned in a 26-point, 11-rebound double-double, including a clutch spinning layup in the final 90 seconds that pushed Houston ahead 105–102. He also added six assists, showing once again why he’s become the team’s offensive fulcrum.
Durant contributed 21 points, six rebounds, and five assists, though he struggled from the field (6-of-18 shooting). Still, his leadership and presence provided Houston with composure down the stretch. Durant’s two late three-pointers shifted momentum in Houston’s favor before Sengun and Thompson closed things out with physical drives inside.
After the game, Sengun reflected on the team’s progress: “We lost two close games early, but now we know where the ball needs to go. We’re learning, and it’s getting easier every game. KD’s arrival changed a lot for us, but the chemistry is coming fast.”
Dallas Falters Without Davis
For the Mavericks, it was another tough night without Anthony Davis, as the team fell to 2–5. P.J. Washington led all scorers with 29 points and 12 rebounds, while Max Christie added 17 and rookie Cooper Flagg contributed 12.
Dallas kept the game close until the final minutes but couldn’t match Houston’s energy on both ends. Washington’s late miss from deep and Thompson’s subsequent free throws sealed the outcome, leaving the Mavericks searching for answers ahead of their next game against the Pelicans.
Houston’s Winning Formula Is Taking Shape
The Rockets’ latest victory was proof that Houston’s young core is maturing rapidly. With Durant providing veteran guidance, Sengun evolving into a true playmaking centerpiece, and Thompson emerging as a two-way force, Houston’s offensive identity is becoming clear.
Their four-game winning streak now includes decisive victories over the Nets, Raptors, and Mavericks, all fueled by balance, unselfishness, and a willingness to attack. Even without Fred VanVleet, the Rockets have maintained rhythm and control, ranking among the NBA’s top teams in offensive efficiency.
If Thompson continues to play with this level of confidence and aggression, Houston’s ceiling could rise even higher than expected, and what began as a season of promise might quickly turn into one of serious contention.
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