MILWAUKEE — With the Knicks having lost 10 of 11 games, coach David Fizdale is rolling with young center Luke Kornet, placing him in the starting lineup over Enes Kanter for Thursday’s game against the Bucks.
Last time the Knicks won, in Charlotte, Fizdale explained, Kornet was a key cog, and the coach wants to see if the shocker move can get the club out of its malaise.
It could turn into a permanent move if Kornet produces and spaces the floor as he can. Fizdale also said he wants to see Kevin Knox and Emmanuel Mudiay play in more space.
The coaching staff believes the 3-point-shooting Kornet, 23, can act as a better rim protector and defender than Kanter, and also space the floor.
Kanter, who bristled the last time he got yanked from the lineup for Mitchell Robinson, said he would address the issue after the game.
Kornet has been playing with a broken nose, wearing a mask the past week after knocking into Sixers center Joel Embiid. Kornet also has a black eye. The Knicks announced last week that Kornet’s nose was not broken.
“I’m just trying to come out and make the most of it, create some offense and be solid on defense,’’ Kornet said. “I’m taking the opportunity for what it is and make the best of it.”
Fizdale’s move is a risk, as it could alienate Kanter, who is a free agent after the season. His situation at the trade deadline bears watching.
Fizdale said Kornet’s addition wasn’t about a Brook Lopez matchup. Lopez has taken to shooting 3-pointers.
“I just thought going on the road, good time to look at a change, and want to see how Mudiay, Kevin and even Noah (Vonleh) operate in space,” Fizdale said. “And I went back to our last win. That’s what coaches do during a tough stretch. Luke was instrumental. Maybe we can duplicate it.”
Kornet made just one start last season as a rookie, when he was on a two-way contract.
“I’m trying to make the most of what I have and establish myself and gain confidence and do what I can to show coach I can keep it,” said Kornet, who played in 10 G League games earlier this season. “I’m hoping to help us win in this role.”
Also Thursday, Tim Hardaway Jr. was to miss the game with an illness, with Courtney Lee starting in his place.
ESPN reported that LeBron James will miss “several” games with a groin injury. That puts his status against the Knicks on Jan. 4 in jeopardy. … Robinson (ankle) still will be out seven to 10 days, Fizdale said. He may be back for the final two games of the trip in Portland/Golden State.