Celtics vs Knicks Preview: Tatum's Return Stakes

Tonight in Madison Square Garden, Boston visits New York for a big rivalry matchup. The Celtics surprised everyone this season and sit near the top of the East, while the Knicks are a top team too. Several Celtics starters are listed as questionable, including Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, so lineups could change late. Expect intense defense, quick guards, and inside battles when the game tips at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Jaylen Brown has been the Celtics' main scorer, averaging about thirty points, though he is questionable tonight. Derrick White leads in steals and blocks for a guard, showing two-way value and leadership. For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson runs the offense and scores a lot while Karl-Anthony Towns controls the paint and rebounds. Matchups will focus on perimeter shooting, interior defense, and who can force turnovers under pressure.

If Boston gets its stars healthy, they can be a real title threat because depth already helped them all season. The Knicks have elite scorers and a strong interior with Towns, so the game may come down to defense and bench energy. Expect tight rotations, strategic timeouts, and physical play inside. After the final buzzer, this matchup will show which team is peaking before the playoffs begin.