Celtics, Knickerbockers square off in Beantown

Boston hasn’t won consecutive games since ripping off five straight wins from December 9 - 16 this season. The Celtics ended a four-game losing streak with Monday’s 77-72 victory over the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center.

Paul Pierce recorded 28 points to help take advantage of a Tracy McGrady-less Houston squad. Pierce scored seven of his points during a 13-0 run late in the fourth quarter for the Celtics, who won for just the second time over their past 22 contests.

Delonte West added 16 points and Al Jefferson had 16 points and 17 rebounds for Boston, which will return home where it is just 5-21 this season. The Celtics are last in the Atlantic, while New York is 5 1/2 games off the lead.

New York has alternated wins and losses over its last nine games, and posted a 99-93 triumph over Miami on Monday at Madison Square Garden.

Stephon Marbury scored 18 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Knicks to their second win in three games. Eddy Curry added 28 points and 11 rebounds for New York, which won for the third time in five outings since the All-Star break.

The Knicks, who are still alive for a playoff spot, have lost their last three games on the road and are 10-19 away from the Big Apple this season.

On the injury front for New York, forward David Lee (ankle) is questionable for Wednesday’s game, while guard Steve Francis (knee) is doubtful against the Celtics.

Wednesday’s showdown between Boston and New York is the fourth and final meeting of the regular season. The Celtics lead the 2006-07 series by a 2-1 count and have won five of seven and nine of the last 12 meetings.

New York has won two straight after losing its last three in Beantown.