Knicks at Timberwolves
THE STORY: In one sensational week, Jeremy Lin has gone from off-the-radar point guard to the king of New York City. The speedy former bench warmer has led the Knicks to four consecutive wins despite the absences of All-Star forwards Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony. Linsanity will meet its match Saturday when the Knicks visit Ricky Rubio and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Rubio has been one of the most electrifying rookies in the league, ranked fifth in the NBA in assists and first in steals.
TV: 8 p.m. ET, MSG
ABOUT THE KNICKS (12-15): So how is Lin - a Harvard graduate who was reportedly on the verge of being cut by the Knicks last week - handling the viral nature of his success? About as well as can be expected from a 23-year-old with just three NBA starts under his belt. "I just try to make sure that when I get there on the floor, I play as hard as I can and try to do everything I can to help the team win," he said following Friday's stunning win over the Lakers. Lin scored a career-best 38 points in that one.
ABOUT THE TIMBERWOLVES (13-14): As good as Rubio has been, Kevin Love has been even better. The veteran was named to the Western Conference All-Star reserve squad earlier this week - and he believes he's a deserving recipient. "This year, I've settled into my position and my status in this league," he said. "For myself, I rate myself right at the top. I feel like I'm the best power forward in the game." Love averages 25.3 points and 13.6 rebounds on the season.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. The teams have split the last eight meetings, with the last four won by the home side.
2. Love averages 17.3 points and 11.8 rebounds in six career games against New York.
3. Lin is shooting 57.5 percent (42 for 73) during his four-game barrage.