NBA

Woodson: Knicks could’ve used Odom this season

Knicks coach Mike Woodson said he hasn’t been kept abreast of the Lamar Odom negotiations, but wishes they had signed the forward for this season. Odom is expected to sign with the Knicks before the season finale on a deal with a second, non-guaranteed year.

Odom would not play this season, but would begin to work out under the auspices of the team during the offseason.

If things don’t work out with the troubled big man/reality TV star, who allegedly dealt with drug issues while sitting out this NBA season, Phil Jackson can use the non-guaranteed pact as a cap filler in a trade this summer. The Knicks have one open roster spot.

“His name came up, but nothing ever materialized,’’ Woodson said of Odom. “But his name did come up.

“I like him,’’ Woodson added. “I like Lamar. I don’t know much about it, but from what I hear from [the media]. I think he’s a talent. He could’ve been good for us earlier. He does a lot of things on the floor that help you win basketball games, that’s for sure.’’

With one year left on his contract, Woodson is almost assuredly coaching his final game as Knicks coach Wednesday night. He is not expected to return in the same capacity, but the timetable for his dismissal is unknown. Woodson said he hasn’t spoken to Jackson about exit meetings with the players, which are scheduled to be Thursday and Friday.

Jackson is considering hiring a coach with a background in the triangle offense, and Steve Kerr, Derek Fisher, Brian Shaw, Jim Cleamons and Kurt Rambis have been mentioned.

The Knicks have carried 14 men since opting not to re-sign Earl Clark after his two 10-day contracts expired. Though the Knicks were in a playoff race and were battered, Jackson decided against using the roster spot.