Exums Late Heroics Force Overtime But Mavs Ultimately Fall To Rockets

Injury Bug Continues to Hound Dallas Mavericks

Exum's Late Heroics Force Overtime But Mavs Ultimately Fall to Rockets

Houston Takes Advantage of Mavs' Depleted Roster to Secure Victory

WEB DALLAS -- In a thrilling back-and-forth battle, the Dallas Mavericks' injury woes proved too much to overcome as they fell 126-122 to the Houston Rockets on Friday night.

Kyrie Irving erupted for a season-high 48 points, leading the Mavericks' offensive charge. However, it was Dante Exum's buzzer-beating 3-pointer that sent the game into overtime.

Unfortunately for Dallas, the Rockets seized control in the extra period, securing the victory and handing the Mavericks their fourth loss in their last five games.

The Mavericks have been plagued by injuries all season, with superstar Luka Doncic currently sidelined with a knee problem. The absence of Irving and Doncic has left the team shorthanded and struggling to find consistency.

The Houston Rockets, on the other hand, have been relatively healthy and took full advantage of the Mavericks' depleted roster. JaeSean Tate and Eric Gordon sat out for the Rockets, but Garrison Mathews stepped up with a strong performance.

As the Mavericks navigate through their injury crisis, they will need to find a way to plug the holes in their lineup and rediscover their early-season form. The road ahead will be challenging, but the team remains hopeful that they can overcome adversity and return to contention.