Despite Dunleavy, Bucks miss in New York

NEW YORK -- Mike Dunleavy came off the Milwaukee Bucks bench to score 24 of his 26 points in the first half, but the rest of his erratic-shooting teammates couldn't get the job done in Monday night's 89-80 loss in New York.

Dunleavy shot Milwaukee from 10 points down to nine ahead, but after scoring 52 points by intermission, the visitors were held to 28 in the second half.  Monta Ellis and Brandon Jennings combined to make just eight of 36 from the field.

The victory allowed the Knicks to increase their lead over the bucks to two-and-a-half games in the battle for the eighth and final playoff spot.  The Bucks lead the season series, 2-1, with the fourth and final game April 11th in the Bradley Center.