If New York fans in the Theater at Madison Square Garden could boo Knicks general manager Scott Layden for trading the seventh pick for former All-Star Antonio McDyess during last year's NBA draft, then Kansas forward Nick Collison figures he has reason to worry if the Knicks call his name with the No. 9 pick tonight.

"In Kansas, we can do anything, and they love us. We're like the Beatles," Collison said yesterday at an interview session for prospective first- round picks. "Here, they hate you if you miss a shot. I realize on draft night, they boo every pick they ever had."

What Collison or anyone else the Knicks might choose must understand is that New York fans are frustrated after two non-playoff seasons with no salary-cap relief in sight. The draft provides a chance to vent, and they might have plenty of reason to do just that if the Knicks don't land a big man.

The top four picks will surprise no one, but the next four could produce a mad scramble in front of the Knicks that could cost them a shot at 6-11 Polish power forward Maciej Lampe and 7-foot Central Michigan center Chris Kaman, who appear to best fit the Knicks' needs.

LeBron James, Darko Milicic, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh are virtual locks for the top four spots, though it's a mystery whether Toronto will take Bosh with the No. 4 pick or trade it to another team that wants Bosh. Then the agony begins for the Knicks.