KNICK NOTES
Jerome James said this week Knicks president Isiah Thomas would’ve been wasting his time had he brought shot-blocking center Theo Ratliff over from Portland.
But now, James will be shut down at least five more days because an MRI showed fluid on his hamstring, but he could be out much longer. Larry Brown, who has little regard for James, pushed Thomas hard to get Ratliff and the Knicks went down to the trading-deadline wire trying to get him.
The Knicks would not give up a youthful chip – a first-round pick or David Lee – to make the acquisition.
“Give me an opportunity to show what I can do . . . it would be a waste to bring him here,” James said of Ratliff.
Thomas ripped James after the trading deadline, saying every player on his team has trade value except James. During a “Q and A” session Wednesday with season-ticket holders, Thomas was reprimanded by one fan who told him he made a mistake signing the 7-1, 300-pound James to a five-year, $30 million pact. Thomas told the fan he was right.
Asked if he was offended by Thomas’ remark that he has no trade value, James gave an interesting remark, revealing he was stung by having his starting center position yanked with the Eddy Curry trade.
“People say a lot of things when they’re frustrated,” James said. “He feels that way. I can’t really blame him. I have been injured a lot this season. Much was expected of me. Just as much was promised to me. There’s been disappointments on both sides. My injuries have definitely kept me out of position to prove my worth.”
Coach Larry Brown said James’ problems began when he reported to camp out of shape.
“It’s been a nightmare for him,” Brown said.
James, who has played in just 28 games, said he’ll eventually help the team and there’s no need to add a shot-blocker this summer.
“I’ve been injured the whole time and haven’t had the opportunity to assess what I can give to this team,” he said. “Quite naturally they’re going to look at what they lack, that’s shot-block and defense in the paint.”
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Quentin Richardson started at small forward last night rather than Jalen Rose, who was expected to man the perimeter with Stephon Marbury and Steve Francis . . . The Knicks have an open roster spot after 2-for-1 trade and could sign a big man from the CBA with shot-blocking skills . . . Brown on Thomas saying he was doing a great job: “I don’t buy Isiah saying I’m doing a great job. I know he’s just trying to be nice to me.”