George Bass, the agent for Larry Johnson, thought the Knicks acted wisely in acquiring Clarence Weatherspoon last weekend, reports the New York Daily News.

"I think that's probably just good business," Bass said. "Larry had some troubles last year, so they'd better find someone to take up the slack."

But as he has done all summer, Bass insisted yesterday that Johnson is not considering retiring because of his chronically sore back. He said neither he nor his client has discussed retirement with the Knicks, and that Johnson is working out six days a week in preparation for his 11th professional season. Johnson could not be reached for comment.