NBA 2018-19: Predicted Starting Lineups and Match Prediction - Boston Celtics vs New York Knicks
The Boston Celtics are on a two-game win streak and will now face the New York Knicks at the Madison Square Garden. This will be the final time these two teams meet in the regular season this year. The Knicks currently hold the 2-1 lead in this 4-game series.
The Boston Celtics' perspective
The Celtics started January with four straight wins before losing three straight. They then went on a five-game win streak that came to an end with their tough loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Boston has picked up steam immediately after the loss and have won two straight games, with the recent one being a blowout win against the Hornets. Jaylen Brown led the team in scoring in both these wins and has given them much reliable scoring.
The C's will be looking to keep the momentum going by defeating the struggling Knicks. A win here will further improve their confidence levels when they come back home to host the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Kyrie Irving is expected to make a return to the starting lineup after missing the game (hip) against the Charlotte Hornets.
Predicted Boston Celtics' starting line-up:
Marcus Morris (F), Jayson Tatum (F), Al Horford (C), Marcus Smart (G) and Kyrie Irving (G)
The New York Knicks' perspective
The Knicks continue to struggle in the NBA and at 10-40, they are the worst team in the league and are at the bottom of the standings table. Nothing seems to be going in their direction as they are currently on an eleven-game losing streak and are desperate for a win.
They just cannot win games and Emmanuel Mudiay has been diagnosed with a left shoulder strain and will be out of action for at least two weeks. This only adds insult to the injury. The team does not have even one player averaging over 20.0 points per game this season.
Their best scoring option is Tim Hardaway Jr., who is averaging 19.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game this year. In October, the franchise has decided against signing Kristaps Porzingis to a rookie contract extension which will make him a restricted free agent in the offseason.
Predicted New York Knicks' starting line-up:
Noah Vonleh (F), Kevin Knox (F), Lance Thomas (F), Trey Burke (G) and Tim Hardaway Jr. (G)
How the things might unfold
The Knicks do not have enough firepower to take on the Celtics and this is going to be a huge mismatch. The Celtics are the overwhelming favorites to tie the regular season series, 2-2.
Prediction
Celtics for the blowout win
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