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Rockets prepare for preseason opener against Mavericks in Macao

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 4, 2026, 1:26 PM

Last updated Oct 4, 2026

Rockets prepare for preseason opener against Mavericks in Macao

Summary

The Houston Rockets are set to face the Dallas Mavericks in their preseason opener on October 9 in Macao. This will be the first appearance for the Rockets this preseason as the NBA's preseason schedule kicks off with several teams already in action. The starting lineup for Houston includes Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun. Key focus areas for the game include substitution patterns, ball handling responsibilities, and shooting performance from young players. Fans are particularly interested in how well Thompson and Sengun will shoot following offseason training with the team's shooting coach.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Rockets play Mavericks in preseason opener on October 9.
•Fred VanVleet leads the starting lineup confirmed for the game.
•Focus on VanVleet's ball handling and young players' shooting efficiency.
•Several NBA teams have already begun their preseason games.

Latest Updates

1:26 PMYahoo Sports — 3 Questions For Rockets Preseason Opener In Macao

What they're saying

"
NBA preseason is already underway. Likely MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo has made his unofficial debut for the Miami Heat. Houston Rockets fans will have to wait until Friday, October 9th for their team to play the Dallas Mavericks in Macao. Here are three questions they should look out for when that time comes. 3 Questions …
— Yahoo Sports

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Dallas Mavericks Houston Rockets Los Angeles Lakers NBA Basketball