The New York Knicks rallied for a would-be dramatic comeback win against the Mavericks in Dallas on Tuesday but fell short 95-85.

Trailing 77-63 at the end of the third, New York stepped up the defensive effort and opened with a 15-0 run in to start the fourth, holding Dallas scoreless for the first seven-plus minutes of the quarter and taking a 78-77 lead.

But, Dirk Nowitzki immediately gave the Mavs the lead back as he came down the floor hitting a jumper, 2 of his 28 points on the night, and Dallas responded with 14-0 run of its own.

Amar'e Stoudemire had 26 points for the Knicks, who drop to 18-20 on the season.

Carmelo Anthony had an off night, scoring just 6 points on 2-of-12 shooting. Jeremy Lin added 14 and seven assists against two turnovers.

Ex-Maverick Tyson Chandler - playing with a brace on his sore wrist - had six points and eight boards. Prior to the game he was presented with his ring from last year's NBA championship.

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