Rivalry...???

That was exactly the response from Paul Pierce when reporters asked him about tonight's matchup with the NY Knicks.  Granted, they did hook up for a few intense playoff series back in the 80's, but there is no recent statistical data to support that notion whatsoever.

Since the 2004-2005 season the Knicks have finished ahead of the Celtics in the standings only one time, the '06-'07 season.  Over that stretch the Knicks have never finished higher than 3rd place in the division and have made only a single playoff appearance.  The Celtics have visited the post season 7 times, won 2 Eastern Conference Championships and one NBA Championship.  The closest the Knicks ever got to sniffing that type of success is from their lounge chairs watching the Celtics on their televisions.

Granted, the Knicks have been on a nice little run lately, winning eight straight games, but let's not get too carried away there, champ.  In that eight game win streak they have beaten a total of two teams with a record above .500 (Denver and New Orleans).

This week, however,  will be a good test for the improved Knickerbockers and could be used to gauge the legitimacy of their early season, high hopes.  Tonight they host the Celtics and Friday the Miami Heat will visit Madison Square Garden.

Personally, I think the buzz this game is attracting is a little over-hyped by certain media outlets who stand to profit from the hoopla being generated ( I won't mention any names, but I think you might be able to put two and two together.  Here's a hint... You can often find Stuart Scott's glass eye glaring at you hauntingly on this network).

The Knicks are definitely a few pieces away from being considered serious contenders, not to mention, they play about as much defense as you would see in a MTV Rock 'n Jock game.  Yeah, the one where T.O. shows off his mad skills in an attempt to hog the limelight even more.

So, yes, the game does feature a couple of the hotter teams in the NBA.  And yes, that is enough to spark interest among a few viewers, such as myself.  Just try to temper your expectations and don't get swallowed up in the frenzy that has developed, and don't be surprised if the Celtics cruise to another easy win as they did earlier this season.  Don't worry, New York fans.  It's not all bad news.  At least you're better than the Nets!