Caleb Martin, Jett Howard, Tarik Biberovic and Santi Aldama all moved off the out list on Oct. 22, each with an Oct. 23 return target for Indiana. Dallas needs the help after a 128-110 loss in Houston in which the Rockets led by 37.
Houston Broke It Early
Most of the damage came before the break. Houston won the second period 38-12, with a 14-0 burst inside it, and a 26-32 deficit after one became 38-70 at halftime. Dallas won the second half 72-58, but by the end the Rockets had their reserves on the floor. P.J. Washington shot 4-of-9 with four turnovers and finished minus-27. Max Christie went 1-of-7 from three at minus-21. Daniel Gafford posted the best mark on the team, plus-9 in 22 minutes.
Flagg Carried, Sasser Answered
Cooper Flagg scored 32 on 10-of-17 shooting, made 11 of 13 free throws and added three steals. That's what star usage should look like: he got to the rim and the line instead of settling, going just 1-of-4 from three. Marcus Sasser gave the most efficient support, 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting with four threes, all in 24 minutes. Kyrie Irving needed only nine shots for 15 points but committed four turnovers. Sasser's shooting has earned him more minutes in Indiana.
Indiana Next, Clayton Arrives
The Pacers went 19-63 last season but opened 1-0 under Rick Carlisle. Aaron Nesmith and T.J. McConnell are both nursing hamstring injuries, and Johnny Furphy is out. Dallas added Walter Clayton Jr. on a two-way contract, announced by Mavs.com. Last season his line was 7.8 points and 4.0 assists in 20.4 minutes. Dereck Lively II is still listed out with a right foot injury. The question for Dusty May: can Aldama's return steady a defense that gave up 70 points in one half?
Who is injured for the Mavericks against the Pacers?
Dereck Lively II is listed out with a right foot injury. Caleb Martin, Jett Howard, Tarik Biberovic and Santi Aldama were upgraded from out on Oct. 22 and are listed to return Oct. 23.
Did the Mavericks sign Walter Clayton Jr.?
Yes. Mavs.com announced Clayton's signing to a two-way contract, and last season he posted 7.8 points and 4.0 assists per game.
