Anthony Davis wasted no time making his mark in Dallas, delivering a dominant first half in the Mavericks’ 116-105 win over the Rockets. He racked up 26 points, 16 rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks in just 31 minutes. With numbers like that, it was clear why the Mavs trusted him to step up with Luka Doncic gone now. His connection with Kyrie Irving was already clicking, especially in pick-and-roll plays, making his transition to the team look effortless.

The Mavs held an 83-75 lead over the West’s fourth-seeded team when Davis checked out. But the excitement took a turn late in the third quarter when he exited with what was initially labeled a “lower-body injury.” Reports later pointed to a groin issue, and the team ruled him doubtful to return.

Just days into his Mavs tenure, the injury raised immediate concerns about his durability. Jason Kidd kept things vague, saying, “I guess he’s all right. We’ll see how he feels tomorrow.”

Good news for Mavs fans—Davis himself doesn’t seem too worried.

After the game, he let reporters know he was fine, downplaying the issue. NBA insider Marc Stein later posted on social media that Davis felt “a little spasm” in the same area as his previous abdomen injury but insisted it was “nothing serious.” Definitely not the worst update, but with AD’s injury history, you can’t blame anyone for holding their breath a little. Despite playing 76 games last season, Davis’ injury record prior to that is pretty shocking. The Brow played just 96 games over two full seasons before 23/24. But when Davis is fit, Dallas has arguably the best frontcourt in the league.

Dallas already established itself as an elite shot-blocking squad, and with Davis in the mix, that reputation only gets stronger. The best part? He won’t have to carry the load alone. Daniel Gafford’s presence and Dereck Lively II’s impending return allow Davis to play his preferred power forward role instead of enduring the grind of a full-time center.

Today we just saw a glimpse of what the Mavs can be with AD.

Anthony Davis puts on a show as the Mavericks defeat the Rockets

The Mavericks’ first game back in Dallas since trading Luka was anything but quiet. Fans gathered outside the arena, protesting the loss of their franchise star, while inside, AD suited up for his highly anticipated debut. And he didn’t disappoint.

He dominated early, dropping 14 points in the first quarter alone as the Mavs jumped out to a 33-20 lead. Houston struggled to find a rhythm, missing 11 straight shots in the second quarter while Dallas’ defense smothered them. By halftime, the Mavericks were in full control, leading 65-48.

The Rockets came alive in the third, cutting the lead to two as Kyrie struggled against Amen Thompson’s relentless defense. But just when it looked like momentum was shifting, Naji Marshall hit back-to-back threes to steady the Mavs. Dallas held strong, finishing the third up 89-81.

In the fourth, the Rockets made one last push, closing the gap to four points. But Dallas answered right back, with Max Christie and Irving shutting the door. Dallas wanted a game-changer, and Davis delivered. He bullied defenders inside, cleaned up misses, and even knocked down threes. When he played the four, Dallas’ defense smothered Houston. It’s the same role he thrived in with the Lakers in 2020. If he stays healthy, the Mavericks might have just unlocked a new level.