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Preview: Knicks Battle Wiz in Rambis' First Test

Game Info:

New York Knicks (23-31) vs. Washington Wizards (22-27)

Madison Square Garden (8 p.m.)

TV: MSG, Radio: ESPN NY 98.7

Knicks Report:

The Knicks overcame a sluggish start to Sunday's matinee against Denver, but despite 21 points apiece from Kristaps Porzingis and Carmelo Anthony, they were unable to hang on down the stretch.

After the loss -- New York's ninth in its last 10 games -- President Phil Jackson decided it was time for a change, relieving Derek Fisher of his coaching duties after 136 games at the head of the bench. 

Following Monday's practice, Jackson announced that former associate head coach Kurt Rambis will take over as interim head coach for the rest of the season.

News and Notes:

  • Porzingis exploded for 13 points and seven rebounds in the third quarter alone, en route to his 18th double-double of the season. The rookie attempted just three field goals in the fourth quarter as the Nuggets pulled away.
  • Anthony returned to action after missing Friday's contest against Memphis with a sore left knee. He added seven assists and six rebounds to his point total, but shot just 2 for 8 in the final period.
  • Jose Calderon scored 11 points in his first full game back from a groin injury, all in the first half. Tonight, he'll face Washington's All-Star point guard, John Wall (averaging 20 points and 9.8 assists per game).
  • A team with substantial postseason aspirations, Washington has struggled so far this season; Randy Wittman's crew enters tonight ranked 19th in offensive efficiency and 21st in defense. The team is fifth in the NBA in 3-point percentage after a preseason initiative to spread the floor, but is 18th in attempts.
  • With Wall leading the attack, the Wizards feature lineups with Jared Dudley (46.4 percent from downtown) and Kris Humphries (34.8 percent on 2.4 attempts per game) as stretch 4s. When Bradley Beal (38.7 percent) is healthy, they have the capability to be explosive offensively.
  • Rookie Kelly Oubre has seen his minutes fluctuate, but shown promise while filling in for injured teammates. His per-36 numbers (11.6 points and 6.8 rebounds) and deep stroke (36.2 percent from 3) make him a player to watch.