Keeping Houston out of transition is the starting point for Under 226.5 in Rockets-Mavericks. The Mavericks allowed no fast-break points against Oklahoma City on Wednesday.
Their reserves helped apply pressure in that game. Dusty May credited Zaccharie Risacher with beating Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to spots and contesting shots. Marcus Sasser pressured the ball.
Houston can challenge Dallas at the rim even when its starting center sits. Clint Capela blocked 2 shots off the bench at Milwaukee, part of the Rockets' 10-block night.
Reed Sheppard is also out with low back soreness, removing a guard from Houston's shooting rotation.