The New York Knicks are in the Big Apple, aiming to close out the Boston Celtics in Game 6.
The second-round series between the two sides has been nothing short of entertaining -- full of different storylines.
Unfortunately, devastating news struck after Game 4, as Jayson Tatum was diagnosed with a ruptured Achilles, which many fans and pundits feared after watching him go down.
Despite the Celtics being without their superstar in Game 5, they were able to capture a victory in the TD Garden, extending the series.
The Knicks, leading the series 3-2, haven't closed out a playoff series in Madison Square Garden since 1999. They'll look to turn that around on Friday night.
One major storyline of the series, particularly in Game 5, is the heroics of Luke Kornet. Outside of Tatum's injury, Kristaps Porzingis' illness continues to force him to struggle.
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8).
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8).
© Eric Canha-Imagn Images
The 7-foot-3 center hasn't been himself in recent contests, still being slowed down by an inability to breathe.
He didn't play in the second half of Game 5, where Kornet started in his place and blocked seven shots while leading Boston to a blowout win.
While Porzingis is active and available for Joe Mazzulla's Celtics squad, the team will be starting Kornet in his place for Game 6.
"Luke Kornet starting for Kristaps Porzingis," The Athletic's Fred Katz shared on X.
Given his impact in Game 5, Kornet starting could be a safe bet in the starting lineup, with Porzingis available for relief if absolutely needed, though they may avoid playing the Latvian star through his illness.
New York will need to neutralize Kornet after his monstrous Game 5 performance, and utilizing Karl-Anthony Towns' ability to space the floor might help them do so.
The two sides are set for what should be a throwdown with the Celtics' backs against the wall and Knicks aiming to advance to the next round of the playoffs.