Frank Nitlina’s first game appearance in nearly two months was a productive one, but Tom Thibodo’s 10-man rotation was unlikely to change once starting point guard Elfried Peyton returned to the Knicks’ lineup.
Payton, who won over the Kings on Thursday, “did a lot of training on Friday” and “we’ll see where he is” ahead of Saturday’s game against the Pacers at the Garden, Thibodo said after practice.
Thibodo also answered “probably not” when asked if he hopes to extend his rotation beyond the customary 10 players to accommodate more time for Ntilikina or others.
“I think 10 is the norm,” Thibodo said. “Obviously it’s tough because we have people who are qualified. But I think sometimes when you extend that time you get carried away with the ability to play well, because you need some time to get the rhythm in the game.
“Any person out of 10, you are situational whether it is from injury or dishonesty.”
In addition to Ntilikina and then-traded Dennis Smith Jr., former first-round pick Kevin Knox and veteran guard Austin River have also been out of the running of Thibodo in recent weeks.
“Those players are all very important to the team,” Thibodo said. “I value a lot of practice. I value team spirit when you’re not in the game, just stay in the game because you never know, things can change in a minute.
“It’s a matter about the NBA. It is a constant change. Whenever you are called, you have to be ready. That was obviously one of the things I was happy with Frank. He was not in the rotation, but he was practicing well and I knew he would be ready when the opportunity came, and that was it. “
Nitilina registered seven points, two assists and three steals in 23 minutes against the Kings. It was his first game since December 29, due to a knee injury and a stent on the COVID-19 reserve list.
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