Game No. 19 Preview: Brooklyn Nets (5-13) at New York Knicks (9-10)

SeanMannion

When: December 4, 2015; 6:00 PM EST

Where: Madison Square Garden; Manhattan, NY

TV: YES Network

Radio: WFAN 660 AM

The first Nets-Knicks cross-river matchup of the season is here, and it’s actually a fairly important one for both teams. Brooklyn has won two games in a row and finally has some positive momentum for the first time all year, and if the Nets have any chance at coming close to a playoff berth, they’ll have to beat out the Knicks, so a lead in the season series would be huge.

Meanwhile, the Knicks — and rookie sensation Kristaps Porzingis — have lost four of their last five, only ending their skid with a 99-87 win over the lowly 76ers at home a few days ago. But, Carmelo Anthony is still there for New York, and if he gets hot against either Rondae Hollis-Jefferson or Joe Johnson, the Knicks could take this game with ease.

Another major storyline for tonight’s game is the 10th-ever meeting between the Lopez brothers — Brook and Robin. The Knicks signed Robin this summer away from the Portland Trail Blazers, and he has been a decent center so far for Derek Fisher’s team. Brook will be looking to tie up his career record against his brother, who he’ll be guarding, which is only 4-5 at the moment.

Probable lineups

BKN- Jarrett Jack (PG), Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (SG), Joe Johnson (SF), Thaddeus Young (PF), Brook Lopez (C)

NYK- Jose Calderon (PG), Arron Afflalo (SG), Carmelo Anthony (SF), Kristaps Porzingis (PF), Robin Lopez (C)

Final thoughts

It’s former Nets owner Jay-Z’s birthday today, so Brooklyn Balling would like to extend a happy birthday wish to Brooklyn’s own. He probably won’t be at the game, but the Nets getting a win in his honor would be huge.

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