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Rookie Mike Sweetney, a 6-8 260-pound power forward, was drafted from Georgetown by the Knicks as a lottery pick. He's averaged 4.3 points and 3.8 rebounds per game this season, in limited minutes. Recently, Sweetney's been playing a lot more. Statistically, in the entire NBA, Sweetney has been one of the league's best rebounders, ranking #7 in rebounds per 48 minutes (15.5) and #2 in offensive rebounds per 48 minutes (6.7). InsideHoops.com recently met with Sweetney in Madison Square Garden for a quick interview.

InsideHoops.com: You weren't getting minutes before. Now you're out there every game, making a difference.

Mike Sweetney: It's been a struggle, I hadn't been playing, but now I'm getting in the rotation and working hard every night.

InsideHoops.com: What's the biggest thing you've improved upon that resulted in you getting more minutes and being a part of the rotation?

Mike Sweetney: Just learning the game, learning more about the game, coming out there and wanting to work hard every night.

InsideHoops.com: Do you know when you're going to get more minutes these days, or does it come as a surprise. I mean, do you have a feel for how often you'll be used on your average given night now?

Mike Sweetney: Sometimes I do get more minutes certain nights, but I just take it one day at a time, and whenever my name is called, I'm ready to play.

InsideHoops.com: Do you hear the crowd when they yell for you?

Mike Sweetney: Well, yeah, it's a great feeling, how they treat me and respect me, and I love them for that. It's been a long season and I'm glad they're behind me.