KNICK NOTES
PHILADELPHIA – Rookie David Lee rolled his eyes Friday when told coach Larry Brown had said the rookies have hit the wall. Lee disputes the notion, though he has been taken out of the starting lineup at small forward for Qyntel Woods, who joined the team in December.
“Not at all,” Lee said. “It’s been a tough stretch of games. I feel very energetic. I’m absolutely ready to play. I don’t feel that at all. I don’t see a difference.
“Every game I play, I get more experienced as well as feel more adjusted. It is tough to go out as a rookie and play every game perfect. It is tough to be consistent.”
Brown believes his three rookies have lost confidence because of all the games the Knicks have lost. In Friday’s losing-steak-snapping win over Orlando, rookie Channing Frye emerged from his slump to sink 18 points and a big jumper with 1:18 left after the Magic rallied to within three points. Frye, even during Antonio Davis’ suspension, is coming off the bench with Brown feeling more comfortable with Maurice Taylor.
“It’s going to be tough on you physically, but I feel great and energized,” said Frye, averaging 14.3 points, fourth-highest on the squad. “Like everyone else, there are days I’m tired.”
Before the Orlando game, Frye’s jumper has been erratic, perhaps because of tired legs or scouting reports being updated. And his defensive rebounding is still weak.
“It’s on me,” Frye said. “I’m frustrated with myself. I want the team to win so bad. Sometimes I overthink. It happens to shooters.”
Lee’s minutes were reduced to just 10 Friday after a DNP vs. Sacramento. Rookie guard Nate Robinson played just 3:49 Friday. Frye will likely be at All-Star Weekend for the Rookie-Sophomore game, while Lee is doubtful. The 5-9 Robinson will go to Houston only as a freak show – to compete in the Slam Dunk competition.