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Marbury's status uncertain as Knicks face Clippers

Nov 14, 2007 - 2:34 PM New York (2-4) at LA Clippers (4-2) 10:30 pm EST

LOS ANGELES (Ticker) - Stephon Marbury's absence could not come at a worse time for the New York Knicks.

With their veteran point guard's status in limbo, the shorthanded Knicks will take on the Los Angeles Clippers in the second contest of a tough four-game West Coast road trip Wednesday at Staples Center.

Marbury skipped New York's morning practice on Monday after reportedly being informed that he would not start in the team's eventual, 113-102, loss against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.

He flew home to New York prior to the contest but has yet to be suspended - claiming that he had permission to leave the team. Coach Isiah Thomas would not comment, opting to keep the issue "in-house."

But the timing was poor by Marbury, who left his teammates behind just in time for the matchup with the high-powered Suns and two-time MVP Steve Nash - one of the league's top floor generals.

Second-year player Mardy Collins started in his place but did not last long. The 6-6 Collins - known more for his defensive prowess - dished out two assists and missed his lone shot before spraining his right foot in the first quarter on Tuesday night.

It was another blow to an already ravaged New York squad, which also was without starters Zach Randolph (death in the family) and Quentin Richardson (elbow). The Knicks have lost three in a row since winning two of three to start the season.

Ironically, Thomas and Marbury - who have been each other's staunchest supporters - may have an irrevocably broken relationship. Thomas and owner James Dolan have reportedly spoken about buying out the rest of Marbury's contract.

But with or without the 30-year-old Marbury, it will be a tough test against the Clippers, who won their first four games to start the season before dropping their last two.

Los Angeles suffered a 103-95 setback against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday. Sam Cassell scored 28 points to pace the Clippers.