Thomas said his brother, Ronnie, died of alcoholism.

"I've had family members who've dealt with the disease he's dealing with," Thomas said. "I have a certain sensitivity. I had people in my family die from that disease. It's a terrible disease."

Isiah Thomas said he had "interest" in Vin Baker but hasn't decided whether he actually will pursue the ex-Celtic, who becomes a free agent tomorrow.

Baker clears waivers tomorrow but still hasn't been cleared to play after repeated violations of his aftercare program. He can be signed to a 10-day contract but it doesn't appear Baker is the right fit right now, especially with the addition of Nazr Mohammed, the low-post big man the Knicks didn't have.

"My job is to be interested in anyone who can play at the NBA level," Isiah said. "That's not to say I want him. But definitely my job is to be interested and, yes, I'm interested."