The Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets kick off their first series of the NBA Playoffs with a nice in-state rivalry. Both teams have been battling for playoff seeding over the past few weeks and now hope the competitive Western Conference has given them the edge to get some playoff success. The Mavericks and Rockets have dealt with injuries throughout the season, but are relatively healthy as they prepare to face off.
The Rockets have been riding high on James Harden who is an MVP candidate and helped the franchise get their first division title since 1994. Harden has put together the type of season that could make him the league MVP as he lifted the team following injuries to Dwight Howard and Patrick Beverley. Howard has nine games under his belt since missing two months with a knee injuries. His minutes have been increasing each game and the Rockets expect him at full strength for the playoffs. Beverley is out for the season which hurts Houston as they prepare to start Jason Terry.
The big move for the Rockets has been the addition of Josh Smith. The shooter was traded mid-season from the Detroit Pistons and has certainly played a major role, averaging 12 points and six rebounds off the bench. If Howard is limited, the team can count on Smith to step up.
The Mavericks are dealing with question marks around Chandler Parsons who was signed in free agency after a stint in Houston. Parsons has missed the past six games with a knee injury, but the Mavericks expect him to play in the playoffs. The Mavericks will also be riding experience in the postseason as five players have more than 10 years under their belt in the NBA. Dirk Nowitzki leads the charge in his 16th season as he hopes his veteran experience gives him the edge needed. The Mavericks have to wait and see what kind of production Rajon Rondo plans on giving them as the point guard has been hot and cold since joining the team.
