PREVIEW: The New York Knicks arrive at this matchup as a defensive fortress, ranking fifth in limiting three-point attempts while controlling the tempo of games through deliberate possessions. New York is riding a five-game winning streak featuring four double-digit victories, including a dominant performance against Portland where they shot 40.3 percent from three-point range. Jalen Brunson continues orchestrating the offense with 27.6 points and 5.9 assists per game, while Karl-Anthony Towns provides a dual-threat presence with 20 points and 11.8 rebounds nightly. At home, the Knicks hold a significant edge, outscoring opponents by 10.5 points per contest while limiting road teams to just 108.7 points. Los Angeles brings elite rim efficiency ranked first in the league, though their perimeter defense remains vulnerable at 20th in limiting three-point shooting attempts. The Lakers have recovered from a rough December stretch with five wins in their last seven games, capped by a 142-111 rout of Washington where they shot a season-best 61.2 percent. Luka Doncic leads the charge with 33.7 points, 8.8 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game, though the team's reliance on him and Anthony Davis has been notably heavy in recent contests. The availability of Austin Reaves, who averages a career-high 26.6 points but has missed 18 consecutive games with a calf injury, remains uncertain heading into Sunday's showdown.