Dallas Mavericks star forward Dirk Nowitzki will sit his fourth consecutive game tonight against the New York Knicks, according to ESPN's Tim MacMahon.

The German international is progressing through a sore right achilles tendon injury, but is not ready for action yet.

He was spotted taking a few warmup jumpers prior to the game, but that will be the limit to his action tonight.

Dorian Finney-Smith started in Dirk's absence. The Mavs also played without point guard Deron Williams who warmed up during shootaround.

After losing their first five games of the season, the Mavs have won two of their last three, despite Nowitkzi not being in the lineup. To get back to .500 however, Dallas is going to need to get to full strength and a healthy Dirk will definitely be necessary if they are to challenge for a playoff spot.

Dallas will be at Boston for its next game on Wednesday when the return of Nowitzki will be more likely.