Knicks vs. Mavericks: TV Schedule, Live Stream, Spread Info and More

The struggling Dallas Mavericks will host the New York Knicks on Tuesday night in a battle of two teams that are looking for an identity. The Knicks made big strides since the implementation of Jeremy Lin into the lineup, but they are still trying to fit all the pieces together.

Since Carmelo Anthony's return and the signing of J.R. Smith, New York has been up and down, alternating wins and losses. With so many good offensive players on one team, it is difficult for everyone to get involved. The stacked lineup has also caused Lin's performance to suffer as he continues to turn the ball over at a high rate.

While Dirk Nowitzki's play has improved for the Mavs, the supporting cast hasn't given him enough help. Lamar Odom has been a major bust, Jason Kidd looks to be on his last legs and Shawn Marion and Vince Carter shouldn't be counted upon as major scoring options at this juncture in their respective careers.

Both teams could really use a win, so this game will be a big one for the Knicks and Mavs. Here is everything you need to know for their latest matchup.

Where: American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas

When: Tuesday, March 6 at 8:30 p.m. EST

Watch: NBA TV

Live Stream: NBA League Pass

Listen: WEPN 1050 AM (New York) and KESN 103.3 FM (Dallas)

Betting Line: Dallas (-2)

Knicks' Key Injuries (According to CBS Sports)

Out: SG Bill Walker (elbow)

Mavericks' Key Injuries (According to CBS Sports)

Out: SG Delonte West (finger)

Doubtful: PF Brandan Wright (concussion)

Questionable: C Brendan Haywood (ankle)

What They're Saying

When the Knicks and Mavs lock horns in Dallas on Tuesday night, Knicks center Tyson Chandler will receive his championship ring for his efforts with the Mavericks last season.

The true focus will be on Chandler's left hand and wrist, however, which may not heal for another four to six weeks, meaning Chandler will have to continue to play in pain.

According to Marc Berman of the New York Post:

"

There’s a lot going on, Chandler said yesterday at the Mavericks’ practice court inside the arena. It’s a situation where I don’t think I’m going to hurt it anymore. It’s more the pain. It’s trying to find ways to catch the ball. We’re finding ways to pad it without restricting everything.

If it wasn’t so many games [in so little time because of the lockout], it maybe would heal in six weeks, Chandler said. But there’s all these games so it may around a little bit. It’s a lot of doctor stuff. I’d have to go back to school to understand [the diagnosis] Just say it’s a sprain.

"

Most Important Player to Watch: Jeremy Lin

Despite his recent struggles, all eyes will be on Knicks point guard Jeremy Lin once again on Tuesday. In Sunday's game against the Boston Celtics, Lin was in foul trouble and ended up with just 14 points and five assists, but he has largely been an asset for the Knicks due to his playmaking ability and penchant for getting to the rim.

Because of his strong overall numbers, though, Lin is now very much under the microscope.

Lin had arguably the best game of his career when the Knicks beat the Mavs a few weeks ago. He poured in 28 points and dished out 14 assists while hitting several big shots down the stretch.

Lin will be operating mostly against the savvy, but aging Jason Kidd, so he should be able to turn in another good performance if he puts in an effort similar to his last outing against the Mavericks.

Key Matchup: Tyson Chandler vs. Dirk Nowitzki

Although Dirk Nowitzki has been much better as of late, the reigning NBA Finals MVP is performing below his usual standards this season with a tad less than 20 points and seven rebounds per game.

Nowitzki hasn't been getting much help either, so if he doesn't turn in a good performance, then the Mavs' chances of winning aren't very good. He will certainly have his hands full on Tuesday against former teammate and current Knicks center Tyson Chandler.

Chandler continues to be a stout defensive stopper for the Knicks, and he has probably been their most consistent player this season. Chandler is dealing with what has been called a left wrist sprain, however, so he is having to play through pain.

If the injury is as bad as expected, then he could have some real issues defending Dirk. If he continues to block it out, though, it will be a tough night for Nowitzki.

Prediction

Knicks 95, Mavericks 93