Knicks at Celtics
THE STORY: The New York Knicks finally showed they could beat the Boston Celtics in the season opener on Christmas Day. Now, with point guard Jeremy Lin and an upgraded supporting cast in tow, the Knicks will look to end a 12-game losing streak in Boston (postseason included) when they visit the Celtics on Sunday afternoon. The teams, which have split of pair of two-point decisions this season, are currently holding down the final two playoff slots in the Eastern Conference and chasing Philadelphia in the Atlantic Division.
TV: 1 p.m. ET, ABC.
ABOUT THE KNICKS (18-18): When New York lost at Boston on Feb. 3, Lin had two points in 6 1/2 minutes. One night later, he came off the bench to score 25 points and spark a seven-game winning streak - and the birth of Linsanity. The addition of J.R. Smith and return to health of Baron Davis has bolstered the Knicks' bench, which produced 50 points – including 17 from Steve Novak – in a come-from-behind win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night.
ABOUT THE CELTICS (18-17): Boston's aging roster appears to have been invigorated by the All-Star break. The Celtics entered the break on a five-game losing streak but have come out of it by winning three straight games, including a 107-94 demolition of New Jersey on Friday night. Point guard Rajon Rondo has been the subject of numerous trade rumors, but it hasn't affected his play. Rondo followed up a triple-double against Milwaukee with 14 points and 13 rebounds against the Nets.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. Celtics shooting guard Ray Allen is expected to play after missing Friday's game due to illness.
2. The Knicks are 10-3 since Lin burst onto the scene with his 25-point effort against New Jersey on Feb. 4.
3. Knicks star forward Carmelo Anthony has scored 63 points in two games against Boston this season.