3 Takeaways as Boston Celtics scorch the Knicks 133-118

No. 3: Al Horford can rest well

Let Al Horford continue to rest well on back-to-backs because he will be fresh and ready to go for a deep playoff run. Do not rush Rob Williams back, as his health will be critical for the long-term success of the pursuit of Banner 18.

The other night Luke Kornet delivered, and tonight minutes were dispersed between Blake Griffin, Grant Williams, and Noah Vonleh, and the results were positive. Griffin started the game doing the little things off the ball as setting screens and getting his share of points too with seven in just 15 minutes of playing time.

Batman was a presence on the floor tonight as he has been customarily the first person off the pine for the Boston Celtics each game. Joe Mazzulla likes to play with the pace with Williams at the five and he has dazzled with his surprising improvement in his driving and finishing ability creating off the bounce.

The Haverhill native had his best outing on the young with seven points to go with a team-leading team-leading seven rebounds in 16 minutes of playing time. His tenacious energy on the offensive glass to keep possessions alive is so valuable. As a former lottery pick clinging to his NBA dream just making one of the last roster slots in training camp, the chip on his shoulder is showing.

The next challenge for this contending green and the white squad is MVP candidate Ja Morant, and the youthful and exuberant Memphis Grizzlies. The game tips on Monday night as a part of a 15-game bonanza of NBA action.