KNICK NOTES
CHARLESTON – Isiah Thomas gave strong indications that Allan Houston’s role this season, even when healthy, will be diminished.
The Knicks president fed the notion Houston won’t be ready for the season opener Nov. 3 and. even if he suits up, it will be in a bit role. Thomas also said Houston’s old role as their No. 1 go-to guy is likely over.
Thomas said if Houston plays any exhibition games, which seems unlikely, it’ll be a cameo. It’s become clear that on opening night – and possibly beyond – that Jamal Crawford, who’s impressed Thomas with his flashy ballhandling skills, will start at shooting guard alongside Stephon Marbury.
“The worst thing that could happen is if somebody accidently runs into [Houston’s] knee,” Thomas said. “In preseason, we’ll take the football approach with him. If he does play in any exhibition games, it will be five, six minutes, then he’s out. We want him around for the real show.”
With scant October playing time, it’s unrealistic Houston can play any significant minutes until December. Thomas admitted Houston no longer has to carry the scoring load. Thomas views Houston as strictly a jump-shooter now, which could interfere with Thomas’ and Lenny Wilkens’ vision of uptempo athleticism.
“The days when Allan has to play 50 minutes and score 40 points for us to be close, it’s over,” Thomas said. “He is what he is. He’s perfect for the role.”
Houston spends the morning sessions away from the team, on the College of Charleston outdoor track doing running drills with a harness. He has yet to scrimmage.
*
Knicks officially announced hiring of John Starks as alumni relations advisor, with no basketball responsibilities . . . Interestingly, rookie Trevor Ariza was wearing jersey of first team while Tim Thomas was second team . . . Isiah said of buying out Shandon Anderson, “Right now that’s not an option.” He will continue to shop Anderson.
On naming of new team physician in Dr. Lisa Callahan, whose title is director of player care, Isiah said, “I felt we needed a little bit more with what’s happening in sports medicine. We need a person to sit in a position and assess everything.”
Knicks had sticky issues with knee surgeries for Marcus Camby, Antonio McDyess and Houston. Isiah said it was no reflection on Dr. Norman Scott, who remains team orthopedist.