Donnie Walsh: Stephon Marbury a Key Player

Had Thomas remained in power, Marbury likely would have been bought out. Walsh said he still considers Marbury a key piece to next season. He’s reluctant to sign a free agent point guard and give him a long-term deal with the Knicks eyeing getting under the cap after 2010 for LeBron James’ free agency.

"I really want to sit down with [Marbury] at some point," Walsh said. "I know he was injured. I know about what happened earlier in the season. I do want to sit down and know what the issues are because he’s a good player. I don’t know where Marbury is and he’s a key player." [NY Post]