The New Jersey Nets wrap up three games in three days when they take on the New York Knicks Monday night at Madison Square Garden. The last time these teams met the sports world was introduced to Jeremy Lin and the mania now known as "Linsanity".
If the Nets had been able to handle Lin back on Feb. 4, there would be a much different team waiting for Avery Johnson's crew. Not only is Lin now the starting point guard and talk of the town, but both Amar'e Stoundemire and Carmelo Anthony are back in the lineup together.
Stoudemire returned on Tuesday and has averaged over 17 points a game, while Anthony is seeing his first action since Feb. 6, the second game of "Linsanity".
New Jersey has gone in the totally opposite direction since the birth of "Linsanity", losing eight of nine, including a 92-85 setback to the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday. While the Nets got center Brook Lopez back against the Bucks, he will sit out Monday before returning Wednesday vs. the Orlando Magic as the Nets ease him into the rotation after a broken foot kept him on the sidelines all season.
Deron Williams continued his strong play against the Bucks, with 26 points and six assists, while Anthony Morrow finished with 17. Lopez logged just 22 minutes and put up nine points and pulled down two rebounds.
You can see the game locally on YES or MSG and listen on WFAN 660 or ESPN 1050 with tip schedule for 7:30 p.m.
The Nets will get a much needed day off Tuesday before wrapping up the first half at The Rock against the Magic.