Celtics vs. Knicks Preview & Prediction

The Boston Celtics and New York Knicks are both struggling heading into this matchup and each desperately need a win. Boston has lost four of their last five games while fighting for a playoff spot, while New York has lost five in a row and seven of their last eight games.

Projected Starting Lineups

Boston Celtics (31-40)

G Marcus Smart –7.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg

G Avery Bradley – 14.0 ppg, 3.1 rpg

F Evan Turner – 9.3 ppg, 5.1 apg

F Brandon Bass – 10.5 ppg, 4.8 rpg

C Tyler Zeller – 10.0 ppg, 5.7 rpg

New York Knicks (14-58)

G Langston Galloway – 11.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg

G Shane Larkin – 5.8 ppg, 2.7 apg

F Lance Thomas – 8.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg

F Lou Amundson – 6.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg

C Andrea Bargnani– 14.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg

What to watch for:

Who steps up for the Knicks?

New York has a significant talent disadvantage in this game, but that doesn't mean they can't win. Langston Galloway stepped up for Knicks when they were able to knock off the San Antonio Spurs, and they're going to need a similar performance from someone (or some people) if they're going to win this game.

Prediction: Celtics win 98-89

This game will be close throughout, but the Celtics will pull away in the second half as their superior talent starts to win out.

Back to the New York Knicks Newsfeed