Knicks get another chance to rewrite narrative in latest test against mighty Celtics

BOSTON — The Knicks are at a crossroads in Beantown. A loss in Sunday’s matinee, particularly an ugly one, would further the freshly reinforced idea they’re not equipped for the big time.A victory would redirect the narrative and serve as evidence the Knicks aren’t going to roll over against the East’s elite. So is it good that the Celtics showdown arrives right after Friday’s debacle in Cleveland? Or would it be better to have that 142-105 nastiness further in the rearview before facing another marquee opponent? “Ask me that after the game on Sunday,” Jalen Brunson said. The Knicks (37-19) have failed in most of their measuring-stick games — with important exceptions of two victories over the Nuggets — but nothing feels more relevant to their long-term success than matchups against the Celtics. The two feel destined for a second-round playoff matchup, especially with the Cavaliers giving no indication they’ll concede the top seed.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Enjoy this Post Sports+ exclusive newsletter! In the two previous matchups this season, the Celtics boat-raced the Knicks while bombing efficient 3-pointers at will. The Cavaliers did much of the same in Friday night’s game that mercifully ended roughly 39 hours before tipoff at TD Garden. “I love it.

I feel like you want to play best at all times,” Miles McBride said of the quick turnaround.“We have to bounce back and have our heads right.” The most glaring problem the Knicks must address is pick-and-roll defense, specifically when it involves Karl-Anthony Towns.

Jayson Tatum punished the Knicks in the season opener by hunting Towns and ditching Mikal Bridges.In the subsequent head-to-head two weeks ago, Tatum was unstoppable while dropping 4...