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New York Knicks Preview: Keys To Defeating The Boston Celtics

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 11, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) and Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley (0) battle for a loose ball during the second half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 11, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) and Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley (0) battle for a loose ball during the second half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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Al Horford has moved on from the Atlanta Hawks to the Boston Celtics, but that doesn’t make him any less of a threat to Kristaps Porzingis and the New York Knicks. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Al Horford has moved on from the Atlanta Hawks to the Boston Celtics, but that doesn’t make him any less of a threat to Kristaps Porzingis and the New York Knicks. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Kristaps Porzingis vs. Al Horford

A number of matchups could be focused on as one that will define this game. That includes the battles between Derrick Rose and Isaiah Thomas, Courtney Lee and Avery Bradley, and the two second units, but the biggest battle will be down low.

With similar skill sets and just height and experience separating them, Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis should put on a show on Christmas.

In 2015-16, Horford and Porzingis were two of three players to record at least 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 100 blocks, and 75 3-point field goals. That alone should offer insight into how well-rounded they are.

Horford has the advantage of being an outstanding passer and impressive ball-handler, while Porzingis is the more productive scorer of the two.

Horford enters this rivalry game averaging 15.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 2.1 blocks, and 1.4 3-point field goals made per game. Porzingis is averaging 19.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 2.1 3-point field goals made per game.

Horford is one of the most consistent players in the NBA, which places a heavy burden on Porzingis to show up and show out.

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