Kidd solid again, but falls to ex-team

DALLAS — Jason Kidd may or may not have his jersey retired in the American Airlines Center rafters if Mavericks owner Mark Cuban holds a grudge, but he still has a championship ring and looks like he might get close to adding a second one.

Kidd, who made his bittersweet Dallas homecoming in the Knicks’ 114111 loss last night, said he sees lots of similarities between the 2011 Mavericks championship team and the 201213 Knicks, who are off to a strong 82 start. Kidd received a nice ovation during player intros despite leaving bitter owner Mark Cuban at the altar in July.

Kidd, who didn’t talk with Cuban, said he hopes they will have a conversation “somewhere down the line.”

Kidd — who had a another strong game (17 points on five 3pointers, six rebounds and five assists) — is changing the Knicks’ culture, the same way he did when he joined the Nets. Kidd’s ball-sharing, defensefirst philosophy has spread across the entire team, and his 3point shooting touch (over 50 percent) has been gravy. Coach Mike Woodson said he’s most impressed with having the luxury of being able to fluctuate Kidd’s minutes from game to game, while still getting the same productivity.

Kidd, who with center Tyson Chandler made up two-fifths of the Dallas titlewinning starting lineup, said he sees championship qualities in these Knicks, their ball movement, depth and a superstar — Carmelo Anthony — finally learning to do the extra things it takes to win big like Dirk Nowitzki.

“The similarities are sharing the ball. We got Dirk to play defense,’’ Kidd said before the game. “We don’t care who scores and just want to win. Hopefully it will be the same turnout.’’

Cuban ripped Kidd in Au gust, saying he backed out of a verbal agreement in July to return to the Mavericks on a 3year, $9 million deal. (Kidd signed a similar 3year, $9.3 million contract with the Knicks.)

Despite Kidd’s two stints in Dallas, Cuban threatened the veteran point that he would not have his jersey number retired (he wore No. 2 and favorite No. 5). Nevertheless, Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle predicted yesterday Kidd will have his jersey retired in Dallas.

“He’s the greatest point guard in Mavericks history,’’ he said.

“I’m happy with my decision,’’ Kidd said. “I’m trying to help these guys win a championship. I had a great run in Dallas. This is business and you have to move on.’’

Ultimately, Kidd decided the Knicks were closer to winning a title than the Mavericks, who have a 76 mark.

“It’s a great place to play,’’ Kidd said. “I have great memories. The fans are great to me. I won a championship there. It was something I had to make a decision on. You’re not a free agent too many times in your career, but it’s great memories in Dallas.’’

When Kidd joined the Knicks, he spoke about looking forward to being Jeremy Lin’s mentor. When the Rockets changed Lin’s offer sheet, Kidd instead became an adviser to Raymond Felton, who has been sensational. The Knicks face Lin and the Rockets tomorrow in Houston.

“It would’ve been great, but I’m happy to have Ray,’’ Kidd said. “He’s our engine, and I’m hoping I’m helping him.’’