By adding Kenyon Martin, Raymond Felton says the Knicks have gained an enforcer, someone who can push back against other teams with physicality.
“He brings a bruiser,” Felton said. “He can guard [positions] 1 through 5. At the same time, when we get knocked on the floor or put on the ground, you know he’s going to do it to the other team. It’s always good to have a guy like that.”
After not playing in four straight games and five of his first six as a Knick, Martin got a long look in Thursday’s 95-94 nail-biter loss to the Thunder. The 35-year-old forward, who is operating on his second 10-day contract, was handed 17 minutes of action, delivering four points, a steal, some tough defense and a hard foul on Kevin Durant (one of six fouls Martin racked up).
Though minutes are in flux while Carmelo Anthony remains sidelined because of a sore and stiff right knee, Martin may become part of coach Mike Woodson’s rotation going forward, ahead of Marcus Camby, who did not play against the Thunder. Martin could start over Kurt Thomas at power forward if Anthony is out again tonight against the Jazz.
“It’s a great feeling just to be back out there, just to be a part of it and try to help us win,” said Martin, who had been out of the NBA until signing with the Knicks.
Having played his most minutes since last May, when he was with the Clippers, Martin said, “I’m going to sleep like an infant tonight. But I’ll take this tired any day.”
Tyson Chandler said of Martin’s contribution, “I was glad to see him out there. Durant is a tough matchup for anybody. He brings great energy on both ends.”