Preview: Celtics Hope to Battle Back After Loss, Take on Knicks at TD Garden
AP Photo | SOURCE: Michael Dwyer
The Celtics got pummeled last night by the Philadelphia 76ers, losing 116-96. They now take on the New York Knicks in night two of a back-to-back.
The Knicks are led by All-Star Julius Randle, who is having a breakout season this year. He’s averaging 22.9 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 6.0 assists a night. RJ Barrett is also having quite the sophomore season, putting up 17.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. Alec Burks, Immanuel Quickley, Elfrid Payton, and Derrick Rose are all also scoring in the double-digits for New York this season.
They currently sit at 25-26 on the season and seventh in the Eastern Conference. The Celtics have the same record but are one spot below due to the tiebreaker. The Knicks are 5-5 in their last 10 games, with six of those games being within six points.
Boston has continued their up and down season since the trade deadline. Things were looking up after two solid wins against Houston and Charlotte, but they came back down to earth against Philadelphia. Joel Embiid dominated them all night long and Robert Williams fouled out in under 14 minutes of game time. Their lack of size at the center position was on full display.
Jayson Tatum also struggled last night, beginning the game 0-5 from deep. He ended the game shooting 7-17 from the field and 3-10 from three. Jaylen Brown was also reluctant to score, as he only took 10 shots the whole night. He did score the ball efficiently, though, shooting 6-10 from the field and 3-7 from deep.
Tristan Thompson is available to play tonight after missing over three weeks due to health and safety protocols. Evan Fournier remains out for the same reason, and Kemba Walker will join him on the injury report. Walker is sitting out on the second night of back-to-backs this season in order to manage his knee injury.
Mitchell Robinson is the only player listed on the injury report for New York. He will miss extensive time after breaking his foot earlier this season.
Make sure to tune in to our live pregame show, the Banner Town Build Up, 30 minutes before the game on YouTube and Facebook @GuyBostonSports. The Celtics tip-off against the Knicks tonight at 7:30 PM EST on NBC Sports Boston.
