Knicks boss Isiah Thomas recently guaranteed Allan Houston will be on the playoff roster spot whether he's ready for this weekend's Game 1 or not. However, Lenny Wilkens sounded contrary following Saturday's night's OT win in Washington.

Maybe they should talk.

The performance of swingman DerMarr Johnson Saturday could make Knick brass change its mind if Houston gives bad vibes about his future readiness. If Houston is activated, Johnson or Frank Williams will be excluded from the playoff roster.

"I think the coaches know what I can do," Johnson told The Post. "I don't know if [Saturday] can make a difference. I don't know where their confidence is."

Asked if he'd be disappointed to be left off the playoff roster, the athletic swingman who battled back from a broken neck responded, "Not at all. I've come a long way. I'm not content, but I'm happy where I'm at. I'm looking forward to the playoffs, whatever role I'm playing, sitting on the bench or suiting up."