Stephon Marbury wants Isiah Thomas to return next season, but he is a bit more realistic about who is making the decisions for the club than some of his teammates.

"I think everybody wants Isiah to be back next year," Marbury said. "It was a statement Dolan made and you can understand why he made the statement. He spends a lot of money for this basketball team and it's a business. He wants to win and see success. If I [were] in his position, I'd feel the same way. If I was spending the type of money he's spending, I understand where he's coming from. Isiah understands. That's why Isiah is trying to get the maximum out of his team and he is. Guys are reaching their potential."

Marbury was quoted in The Post in the offseason, saying, "I want to die a Knick."

"I also think it's going to take time as well," Marbury said. "It's tough for a coach to come in and try to make significant success [after last season]. But he's making progress and I think Mr. Dolan is recognizing that."