BOSTON — Veteran point guard Chauncey Billups is expected to miss the second game of the Knicks’ playoff series against the Celtics because of an injured left leg.
Coach Mike D’Antoni said Monday that Billups was “very questionable” for tonight’s game in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference first-round series.
Billups was hurt in the final minute of the Knicks’ 87-85 loss Sunday. He said doctors told him that he strained his left knee or thigh muscle.
Rockets dismiss Adelman
HOUSTON — Rick Adelman is out as coach of the Rockets, according to a person familiar with the decision who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The Rockets didn’t make an official announcement.
Adelman, 64, went 193-135 in four seasons with the Rockets. His career record is 945-616, and he ranks eighth in NBA history in victories.
Three times a charm for Howard
ORLANDO, Fla. — Magic center Dwight Howard became the first player to win the NBA defensive player of the year award three straight seasons.
Howard received 585 points, including 114 first-place votes, from a panel of 120 sportswriters and broadcasters.
Boston’s Kevin Garnett finished second with 77 points and Dallas’ Tyson Chandler was third with 70.
The Associated Press
