Baron Davis, in his first start with the Knicks on Monday, didn’t make the case he belongs as the man to supplant Jeremy Lin as starting point guard anytime soon.
In fact, it is becoming more than evident the Knicks got extra lucky Linsanity happened and Davis no longer was needed as the team’s savior.
Davis likely will make another start tonight versus the Magic at Madison Square Garden as it appears Lin is leaning toward resting his knee for a second straight game.
In his season-high 34 minutes, Davis had nine turnovers and shot 3-of-12, many of them ill-advised shots. It was enough evidence he will be back to the bench soon.
“I didn’t think I had the best game of my career,’’ Davis said. “It’s probably the worst game I’ve had since I’ve been here, since I’ve been playing. But it was good to get those type of minutes and to get out there and just extend myself.’’
The Knicks had 23 turnovers. Davis is dealing with hamstring, back and stamina issues. Coach Mike Woodson said Friday he doesn’t expect Davis to ever be “100 percent’’ this season.
“My concern offensively is handling the basketball, not turning it over,’’ Woodson said in an indirect jab at Davis.
Davis didn’t make his season debut until late February.
“I’m all right,’’ he said. “A little banged up. A little tired, exhausted. As long as Jeremy’s out, I’m going to have to fill that void so I’m going to have to get used to these minutes. It’s just something that as we continue to play, I’ll continue to get better.’’
Rookie Iman Shumpert said many of the turnovers were because guys are trying to “make the home run play.’’
* Bucks point guard Brandon Jennings took his own little jab at former coach Mike D’Antoni after the loss. Jennings has feasted on the Knicks ever since D’Antoni recommended not drafting him in 2009. Jennings sees a difference in Woodson’s defensive-oriented club which is 7-1 since he took over.
“They did play a lot more aggressively than they’ve played since I have been in the NBA,’’ Jennings said. “They just played harder.” Under Woodson, the Knicks have allowed more than 90 or more points twice in eight games.