Pacers CEO Donnie Walsh told the media that the Knicks were not one of the many teams that contacted the Pacers about acquiring Ron Artest.  The Pacers' disgruntled star is on the inactive list and the trading block after demanding to leave Indiana.  Artest recently said his preference would be to go to New York but then said he would go to any of the other 29 NBA clubs, as long as he could leave his baggage behind in Indiana.  

The Knicks' president of basketball operations Isiah Thomas is said to be keeping an eye on these developments even if he has yet to come in with the team's bid.  

"I've heard from 15 or 16 teams, but the Knicks were not one of them," said Walsh.  "There were some offers that were interesting."

It is believed that surging rookie Channing Frye would entice the Pacers but that MSG management considers Frye an untouchable.  Whether the Knicks will make an alternative offer -- and exactly what that package of talent would be -- remains an unknown.