With both knees now hurting because of overcompensation on the left one and his play in shambles, Allan Houston said he hasn't ruled out sitting out until after the All-Star break, which would give himself a full three-week layoff.

And for the first time, Houston admitted yesterday that he came back "too soon" for training camp following June's arthroscopic surgery.

Sitting out until after the All-Star break - that is, until Feb. 17 vs. Detroit - would be an extreme measure, but one Houston has to consider, with the Knicks still tied for the eighth seed and not losing ground. If he takes a shorter break that doesn't allow the knees to heal, what's the point?

"I haven't made my decision yet if I'm going to and how much it is," said Houston.