Southwest Notes: Okogie Joins Rockets’ Starters, Flagg Available, Mavericks‐Stars Lawsuit, Jackson’s Minutes
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Houston, TX, Oct. 29, 2025 — The Rockets altered their opening lineup on Monday, replacing center Steven Adams with veteran wing Josh Okogie after back-to-back losses. Head coach Ime Udoka told The Houston Chronicle he wanted “a smaller, more defensive-minded” unit. Udoka praised Okogie’s physical play, offensive rebounding and ability to give guard Amen Thompson occasional relief as a primary ball-handler.
The switch produced Houston’s first victory of the season, a win over Brooklyn. Through 13 minutes together, the new quintet of Thompson, Okogie, Alperen Şengün, Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. owns a +29.2 net rating. Despite the success, Udoka noted he will still rely on the Şengün-Adams tandem, which has logged a +18.2 mark in 59 minutes over the club’s first three contests.
Mavericks Injury Updates
Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg injured his shoulder early in Monday’s game but played through it, finishing 1-for-9 from the field. He is not listed on the injury report for Wednesday’s meeting with Indiana, indicating he will be available, according to The Athletic. Starting center Dereck Lively II is doubtful with a right knee sprain and is expected to miss a second consecutive game.
Mavericks and Stars in Court Battle
The Mavericks filed a lawsuit Tuesday against the NHL’s Dallas Stars, alleging the hockey club breached its American Airlines Center agreement and blocked arena maintenance and upgrades. The Dallas Morning News reports the Stars counter-sued Wednesday, claiming the Mavericks are attempting a hostile takeover of the facility both teams share.
Jackson Fighting for Minutes in Memphis
Grizzlies forward GG Jackson II, who broke out as a 19-year-old rookie in 2023-24, has seen fewer minutes despite multiple injuries in Memphis’ rotation. Coach Tuomas Iisalo said the 21-year-old remains “very valuable,” noting Jackson spent the summer working to become a more complete player and must keep improving defensively to secure a larger role.
Source: Hoops Rumors
