Knicks coach Mike Woodson said Tuesday injured forward Amar’e Stoudemire is a “possibility” to play Friday at Cleveland.
Stoudemire needs to get through practice Thursday before a final decision is made.
Stoudemire briefly broke his media silence Tuesday, speaking for a couple of minutes after initially saying he had no comment.
Told of Woodson’s assessment, Stoudemire said, “Is that right? Sounds pretty good. We’ll see.’’
Stoudemire added, “I definitely have to get some games under my belt before the playoffs. There’s a little hint.’’
If Stoudemire plays Friday, he will have four games to get the rust off before the postseason, if the Knicks qualify.
Regarding a new look of cornrows and no beard, Stoudemire said, “It’s another way for my hair to grow faster in a cornrow, braided setting. It’s a cleaner look.’’
Stoudemire was not on the court for the morning shootaround. He had a light scrimmage Monday with some teammates and staffers. It was the third contact scrimmage he has held.
Stoudemire is missing his 12th straight game Tuesday against the Celtics and will not play Wednesday against the Nets.
Tuesday is three weeks since Stoudemire received an epidural steroid injection for the bulging disk in his back.