On Wednesday October 21st, the Houston Rockets are set to start their 2026-2027 NBA season at home. They’re matched up against a very familiar opponent with the Dallas Mavericks in town. This will be the third time these teams have met in the past two weeks, but I’d expect to see much different basketball. 

Kyrie Irving missed the first game in Macao, letting Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams take the spotlight in their return. They switched places in the second game, with Irving playing and the other two resting. 

Kevin Durant and Alperen Şengün also missed the second game in China, making it difficult to truly judge anything that happened on the court. Thankfully we should have a much different lineup this evening.

When: Wednesday October 21st @ 7:30 PM CT 

Where: Toyota Center in Houston, Texas  

Where to watch: Local Broadcasting, NBA League Pass (with subscription)

Coming into the season opener this evening, the Rockets are expected to have their full lineup available, more or less. While we still might not get to see Steven Adams, that’s something fans should get used to.

As covered on Roundtable, both he and Clint Capela will likely be in and out of the lineup all season long. It’ll be a toss-up to see who gets minutes on any given night, but I would be a bit surprised to see Adams in this game. 

Questionable: Steven Adams (Right Calf Tightness) 

Questionable: Julian Phillips (Illness)

Out: Santi Aldama (Right Knee Surgery) 

Out: Tarik Biberovic (Right Heel Bursitis)  

Out: Dereck Lively II (Right Foot Surgery)  

Out: Caleb Martin (Right Thumb Sprain)  

Doubtful: Jett Howard (Right Calf Tightness)  

It is slightly concerning to see Steven Adams now officially on the injury report, rather than just sitting out due to the coach’s decision. Did he actually miss the last two preseason games due to discomfort, or was it simply just rest? 

Only time will tell, but the Rockets should still have the upper-hand in this matchup against the Mavs, regardless of whether or not Steven Adams gets any minutes. Don’t be surprised if it comes down to the wire, though. 

Reigning Rookie of the Year, Cooper Flagg, helped the Mavericks split this season series last year. Each team won both of their home games, but the only double-digit victory went to Dallas.

The average margin of victory was six points across the three other matchups. Houston should not and can not underestimate their opponent if they want to walk away with a win on NBA Opening Night. 

More from RocketsRoundtable: 

Ime Udoka Jumps In Coach Of The Year Odds Ahead of Home Opener

KD’s Didn’t Need His Burner Account to Clap Back at Mat Ishbia 

How Ime Udoka Can Win Coach of the Year for the Houston Rockets

Steven Adams’ 2026-2027 Expectations With Houston Rockets