Here's a breakdown of the Celtics-Knicks rivalry, from the classic battles to the matchups between current superstars.

First there’s the s tandard preview I do every year where I look at who left, who was added, and some strengths and weaknesses and make some vague predictions. Then, because I like to have fun with it, I always do some SWAGs as a secondary preview. I’ll quote from both liberally and critique myself.

The Toronto Raptors have been looking up at the host Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference standings for much of the season, but the Raptors will have a chance to pull even with the Celtics when the teams meet Friday night.

BOSTON — Payton Pritchard did not express much excitement Monday night when informed that the Boston Celtics passed the New York Knicks for second place in the Eastern Conference. “Are we even 40 games into the season yet?” the Celtics guard asked.

During his time suiting up for the Celtics, Vrankovic wore only jersey Nos. 52 and 11 and put up 1.9 points and 1.6 rebounds per game.

Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with a double-double of 29 points and 10 rebounds. Seven Celtics scored in double-figures, including 16 apiece from Payton Pritchard and Derrick White. White gave Boston a huge fourth quarter boost, scoring 14 points in the final period.

The Celtics have struggled in the past coming home after a long road trip, but they played plenty hard in their win over the Bulls.

Payton Pritchard explains why the Celtics still expect championships despite doubts, injuries, and a shifting Eastern Conference race.

On Tuesday night, the Boston Celtics faced off against the Denver Nuggets, a cross-conference battle between top teams. Despite the absence of Nikola Jokic, Denver was able to take home the win thanks to some hot shooting and a timely fourth quarter surge.