Ron

Mercer

That’s rarely a good sign. Mercer’s availability for tonight’s game is unknown. If he can play, he’s expected to start over Eric Williams.

Two MRIs haven’t turned up anything conclusive about Mercer’s knee, so surgery is the only way to find out what’s bugging him. Rodney Buford is expected to step in, but he’s dealing with a sprained foot. The Nets are looking at replacements, perhaps Shandon Anderson who was just bought out by the Knicks.

Mercer would likely share the small forward job with Rodney Buford. As far as bringing in help, the Nets have already been seeking a power forward, but now will expand that search to include a swing man. Some names the Nets are likely to inquire about include disgruntled Hornet Jim Jackson, little-used Bobcat Steve Smith, and promising Laker (and Jefferson’s best friend from his University of Arizona days) Luke Walton.

GM Ed Stefanski said Planinic, who’ll wear a protective glove, was a virtual lock to play tomorrow while Mercer was a maybe. Mercer is the one with the potential for fantasy value, but it doesn’t mean you should pick him up yet.

Mercer slipped on a defensive rotation Monday in just his second game back from knee surgery and felt a ''different’’ soreness the next day. He’s not ready to assume Richard Jefferson’s mantle yet.

The two were taken off the IL yesterday, though they aren’t yet ready to play.

Mercer has been out of action since being waived by the Spurs on Feb. 27.

Mercer will clear waivers on Wednesday.

Mercer might start at shooting guard if he signs with the Nets.

The Nets are using the amnesty clause to part ways with Ron Mercer. He’ll be picked up by another team in need of outside shooting, but he shoudln’t be considered for fantasy teams this year.