Clues to the outcome of the Knicks' three-way competition at point guard have been hard to come by since training camp opened three weeks ago. Knicks coach Jeff Van Gundy, so demonstrative in his sideline demeanor, has maintained a poker face on that subject.

Questions about the relative merits of Mark Jackson, Charlie Ward and Howard Eisley have produced the stunning revelation that all are "doing fine." But with the season opener just one week away, Van Gundy finally might tip his hand with his lineup against Utah tonight at Madison Square Garden. Or not. The coach has been playing two point guards and sitting one in each exhibition game. It's Jackson's turn to sit tonight. If he starts instead, then, it's possible Van Gundy has settled on his rotation and the third point guard against the Jazz is ticketed for that supporting role.