New York Knicks: Who stepped up against the Boston Celtics on Dec. 21?

Courtney Lee

It may seem odd to include a player who shot 2-of-9 from the field, but Courtney Lee was of indescribable importance. His defensive intensity and versatility were on display, and his shots were falling when New York was losing ground.

The starters built up the lead in the first half, and Lee played as significant a role in that early success as anyone on the roster.

Lee finished the win over the Celtics with 12 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals in his 28 minutes of action. He shot 2-of-9 from the field, 2-of-4 from beyond the arc, and 6-of-6 from the free throw line in yet another strong showing.

Lee tied with Doug McDermott for the most minutes played against the Celtics, and he justified it with a +/- of +5 during the nine-point win.

Lee’s defense held the Celtics’ perimeter in check, and his shooting continued to qualify as clutch. He converted a critical three to help bring the Knicks back into the game when Boston was seemingly pulling away during the third quarter.

All in all, it was a brilliant showing by the individual who has become one of the veteran leaders of a resurgent Knicks team that’s beginning to think playoffs.