The New York Knicks vs Dallas Mavericks rivalry may not be the NBA’s most historic, but their matchups have delivered thrilling games, iconic performances, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, understanding their head-to-head timeline helps appreciate their evolving competition.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✔ Key historical matchups between the Knicks and Mavericks
✔ Notable games & player performances (Dirk vs Melo, Luka’s rise)
✔ Season-by-season results & stats
✔ Future outlook for both franchises
Let’s dive into the Knicks vs Mavericks timeline and relive their most exciting battles!
Knicks vs Mavericks Head-to-Head History
The Knicks and Mavericks have faced off over 100 times since Dallas joined the NBA in 1980. While not division rivals, their games have featured:
- Hall of Famers (Patrick Ewing, Dirk Nowitzki)
- Modern superstars (Luka Dončić, Jalen Brunson)
- Playoff implications in tight Eastern vs Western Conference battles
Early Years (1980s–1990s)
- First meeting: November 8, 1980 (Mavericks won 103–101)
- 1990s battles: Patrick Ewing dominated, but Dirk Nowitzki’s arrival in 1998 shifted the rivalry.
The Dirk Nowitzki Era (2000–2019)
- 2004: Dirk drops 53 points vs Knicks, a career-high at the time.
- 2011: Mavericks win NBA title; Knicks struggle in post-Melo transition.
The Luka Dončić & Jalen Brunson Era (2020–Present)
- 2022: Brunson leaves Dallas for Knicks, adding fuel to matchups.
- 2023: Luka’s 60-point triple-double stuns Knicks in OT thriller.
Memorable Knicks vs Mavericks Games
1. February 3, 2004 – Dirk’s 53-Point Masterpiece
- Final Score: Mavericks 113, Knicks 105
- Key Stat: Dirk shot 15-of-32 FG, 4-of-5 from three
2. December 27, 2022 – Luka’s 60-Point Triple-Double
- Final Score: Mavericks 126, Knicks 121 (OT)
- Key Stat: Luka had 60/21/10, first 60-20-10 game in NBA history.
3. March 13, 2024 – Brunson’s Return to Dallas
- Final Score: Knicks 122, Mavericks 108
- Key Stat: Brunson scored 34 points against his former team.
Knicks vs Mavericks Season-by-Season Results
| Season | Wins (Knicks) | Wins (Mavericks) | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 1 | 1 | Brunson’s revenge game |
| 2022-23 | 0 | 2 | Luka’s historic 60-point game |
| 2021-22 | 1 | 1 | Close OT battle |
(Full historical stats available on NBA.com)
Future Outlook – Will This Rivalry Heat Up?
With Jalen Brunson leading the Knicks and Luka Dončić anchoring the Mavericks, future matchups will be must-watch games. Key factors:
- Playoff meetings? If both teams stay contenders, a Finals clash could happen.
- Free agency moves (Will Dallas or NY pursue more star power?)
FAQs – Knicks vs Mavericks Timeline
Who has more wins, Knicks or Mavericks?
As of 2025, the Mavericks lead the all-time series (62-48).
When did the Knicks and Mavericks last meet in the playoffs?
They’ve never faced each other in the playoffs, but a future matchup is possible.
What was the highest-scoring Knicks vs Mavericks game?
December 27, 2022 – Combined 247 points (Mavericks 126, Knicks 121).
Also Read: Mavericks vs Knicks: Rivalry, Stats, and Key Matchups in 2025
Conclusion & CTA
The Knicks vs Mavericks timeline is filled with explosive performances, rising stars, and dramatic finishes. As both teams chase NBA glory, their matchups will only get more intense.
Which game was your favorite? Let us know in the comments! For more NBA rivalries, check out our Lakers vs Celtics breakdown.
(Need tickets to the next Knicks-Mavericks game? Visit Ticketmaster for the best seats!)
