Preview: Mavericks at Knicks NEW YORK (Interstat) — The New York Knicks look to rebound from a tough West Coast trip when they host the struggling Dallas Mavericks on Monday night at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks (26-16) return home after dropping three of four games on their recent swing, including a 126-113 loss at Golden State on Thursday. New York has maintained a solid position in the Eastern Conference despite the skid, largely behind the consistent interior presence of Karl-Anthony Towns. The veteran center is averaging a double-double, coming off a 17-point, 20-rebound performance against the Warriors. Dallas (17-26) arrives with a flicker of momentum, having won two straight, including a 138-120 victory over Utah on Saturday. The Mavericks have been led by the recent surge of guard Brandon Williams. Over his last three games, Williams is averaging 20 points and 4.3 assists while shooting efficiently, providing a needed spark for an offense that ranks in the bottom third of the league. The matchup presents a stark contrast in styles and season trajectories. The Knicks have built their identity on defense and rebounding, ranking among the NBA’s best on the glass, anchored by Towns. The Mavericks, conversely, have struggled defensively all season but possess the capability for explosive offensive nights, as evidenced by scoring 144 and 138 points in their last two wins. This is the second meeting between the teams this season. New York won the first matchup 113-111 in Dallas on Nov. 19, 2025. For the Knicks, securing a win at home is crucial before embarking on another challenging stretch of their schedule. For the Mavericks, any hope of climbing back into the Western Conference play-in picture requires stringing together wins against above-.500 opponents on the road. The game tips off at 7:30 p.m. EST at Madison Square Garden.