New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Boston Celtics?

Jan 18, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) and forward Mindaugas Kuzminskas (91) react after a play against the Boston Celtics in the second half at TD Garden. The Knicks defeated the Celtics 117-106. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 18, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) and forward Mindaugas Kuzminskas (91) react after a play against the Boston Celtics in the second half at TD Garden. The Knicks defeated the Celtics 117-106. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 18, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) defends against New York Knicks forward Mindaugas Kuzminskas (91) in the first quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 18, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) defends against New York Knicks forward Mindaugas Kuzminskas (91) in the first quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /

Mindaugas Kuzminskas

Mindaugas Kuzminskas has been a revelation for the New York Knicks. He stepped up with 14 points in 16 minutes on New Year’s Eve and, in the 10 games that have followed, he’s maintained a stellar pace.

Against the Boston Celtics, Kuzminskas showed no fear in stepping up to help lead the New York Knicks to a desperately needed victory.

Kuzminskas continued his hot stretch with 17 points, six rebounds, two offensive boards, and two assists in 29 minutes. He shot 6-of-12 from the field, 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, and 3-of-3 from the free throw line.

This was yet another sensational showing from Kuzminskas, who’s rapidly developing into a go-to player at small forward.

Kuzminskas has now scored at least 14 points in three of the past four games. He’s scored at least 13 points in six of his past 10 appearances, and played an instrumental role in each of the Knicks’ two most recent wins.

Kuzminskas scored 19 points during New York’s previous win and had 14 in his first start on Jan. 16. That has him positioned for a breakout second half of the season.