Knicks gain rousing victory over Celtics N

NEW YORK (MCT) — Now, where were we before we were so rudely interrupted?

Oh, right: April 24, Madison Square Garden, Knicks vs. Celtics, the latter sweeping a first-round NBA playoff series and extending their overall winning streak over the Knicks to eight games.

Eight long, post-lockout months later, the teams reconvened at high noon Sunday to tip off the 2011-12 season on national television, the Knicks showcasing a new-look roster in a new-look arena.

One thing hadn’t changed since the last time the teams met: Carmelo Anthony was an offensive force. One thing did change: The Knicks won, 106-104, going ahead on a pair of Anthony free throws with 16.3 seconds left.

In the fourth quarter alone, Anthony scored 17 of his game-high 37 points, shooting 4-for-5 from the field and 7-for-8 from the line.

It was a rousing, rugged victory, made more satisfying because of the opponent.

“It’s going to be a rivalry now because I think we can get up to the same level they are,” said coach Mike D’Antoni.

“It’s going to be knock-down, drag-out, and there are going to be some tempers.”

That was evident after the game’s final play. The Celtics inbounded with 3.9 seconds left, and as the Knicks’ Tyson Chandler tried to guard Kevin Garnett, he ran into teammate Bill Walker.

Walker made a quick recovery and contested Garnett’s shot from 14 feet, which was off target. After the final horn, Garnett and Walker jawed at one another, and Garnett shoved Walker in the face.