Jerome

Williams

No reason to own the Junk Yard Dog.

Williams scored a season-high 13 points (6-of-7), hauled in nine rebounds and four steals, and, according to the Post, made about 23 hustle plays in 23 minutes. He, Trevor Ariza, and Moochie Norris brought an intensity to the floor that the starters were lacking.

The Knicks have plenty of offense. What they need is precisely what the Junkyard Dog brings -- defense and hustle. If he plays enough minutes, he’s capable of helping a fantasy team.

X-rays were negative, however, and Williams is listed as probable tonight.

Williams is day-to-day, giving Mike Sweetney more opportunities.

Marcus Fizer is filling in for Williams.

''Jerome’s neck was bothering him, but you know Jerome. He wants to be out there,’' coach Lenny Wilkens said. The Raptors are facing five West Coast games in seven days, so there’s no rest for Williams unless he takes some time off.

Williams suffered a strained tendon in his left knee. It’s possible he will go on the injured list today.

Williams is day-to-day.

That will save them $21 million, and is not a surprise. It was thought that Allan Houston would be the guy waived for the one-time amnesty rule, but in the last few days it became clear that Houston was staying (although he may retire).