Isiah Thomas may find time for his rookie first-round pick Wilson Chandler.

In a pre-season loss in New Jersey, Chandler had eight points (2 of 3 from the 3-point line), seven rebounds, two assists and three steals.

"With Chandler out there, I wanted to see how he plays against [Richard] Jefferson and [Vince] Carter just to see where he really is as a defender and a player," Thomas said. "I'm pleasantly surprised."

With a ready-made NBA physique, solid defensive skills and an impressive stroke, Chandler is in the running for a spot in the rotation.  Renaldo Balkman's injury could force the Knicks to find another forward off the bench to start the season.

Chandler needs to improve his ball-handling.