Although improving their defense is constantly mentioned as the Dallas Mavericks' top objective this season, the No. 1 concern is obviously preserving the health of Luka Doncic. Success is unattainable without the franchise cornerstone leading the way. His thumb injury forces the Mavs to be mindful going forward.

But no extreme action is needed for the time being, apparently. “Luka Doncic is expected to play Tuesday against Houston, Mavericks coach Jason Kidd says, although an MRI exam earlier today confirmed a left thumb sprain on Doncic's non-shooting hand,” NBA correspondent Marc Stein reported.

With center Dereck Lively II being listed questionable for the contest with a lower back contusion, fans will at least be stoked to hear the latest positive update regarding Doncic. The nature of the injury is making Kidd and the team feel comfortable enough to roll out the four-time All-NBA selection.

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After a red-hot start, Dallas (10-6) has significantly cooled and lost four of its last six games. Doncic shoulders a huge portion of the offensive workload, so it is imperative he remains sharp. The 24-year-old (yeah he's still that young) is averaging 30.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 7.8 assists and 1.3 steals through 16 games. His blistering 39.4 percent shooting from 3-point land has made him more dangerous than ever.

It will take a collective effort for the Mavs to reach their full potential, though. Luka Doncic cannot put this team on his back for the entirety of an 82-game campaign. Nor should he have to, when factoring in all of the talent Jason Kidd has at his disposal.

The Mavs and Rockets tip-off Tuesday night at 8:30 p.m. ET.