Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks - Preseason Game 2

New York Knicks (0-0) at Boston Celtics (1-0)
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
7:30 ET
Preseason Game #2
TV: NBA-TV, CSNNE, and MSG

Tonight, the Boston Celtics play the New York Knicks in their 2^nd exhibition game. After beating the 76ers by 20 points in the first preseason game, the Celtics will be playing the Knicks at home in their preseason debut. Rajon Rondo, Jeff Green, and Vitor Faverani will both be sitting out again this game. James Young was added to the injury report for a hamstring injury, and Marcus Thornton also was for having some dental work done.

Tonight’s game should give us a better indication of where the Celtics stand. The Knicks have a lot more talent than the lowly 76ers, so hopefully we can keep the winning streak going against a much stronger team. With Jeff Green back in the fold, we should also get a better look at the lineup that should be starting at the beginning of the season (until Rajon Rondo gets back). Stevens will most likely continue to experiment with odd lineups, and we will get to see our young head coach be creative with his lineups.

Another interesting storyline to watch will be how Fisher performs in his coaching debut.  It will be great to see if he is able to get the most out of the new Knicks triangle offense.  Considering this will be the first time the Knicks play against NBA competition with both their new coach and system, the Celtics should be able to capitalize on mistakes and hopefully continue their early winning streak.

Boston Celtics:

Possible Starters:  Marcus Smart, Avery Bradley, Jeff Green, Jared Sullinger, and Kelly Olynyk

This is just an assumption, but I would imagine that Stevens will run out the same starting lineup as last time with Green inserted in place of Turner.  I know Turner played great last game, but I really think Stevens would like to use him as offensive weapon off the bench.  The main thing with this lineup will be who matches up with Carmelo Anthony. If Fisher decides to use Anthony as a power forward, things can get tricky as both Sullinger and Olynyk would have trouble matching up against him.

New York Knicks:

Possible Starters:  Jose Calderon, JR Smith, Carmelo Anthony, Andrea Bargnani, Samuel Dalembert

Once again, this is just a complete guess. Fisher has not yet revealed his preferred starting lineup, but this was a group that was rumored to be playing together during scrimmages recently.  This group also has a ton of shooting throughout, so it really fits with the triangle offense that Fisher is so strongly trying to implement.  Although these guys may start (or not), I expect to see guys like Iman Shumpert and Tim Hardaway Jr. get extended minutes on the floor as well.  Tim Hardaway really emerged as a rookie last season, and it would make sense for them to continue developing him since he is one of their only young assets.