Carmelo Anthony: Ruled out Friday

Anthony will not play Friday against the Grizzlies due to soreness in his left knee, Steve Popper of The Record reports.

Analysis:

Anthony has been dealing with soreness in the surgically repaired knee for several weeks, and Friday will mark his fifth absence since mid-January. The 31-year-old has struggled in each of the last two games, shooting a combined 8-of-34 from the field with six turnovers. He underwent an MRI on Friday, which revealed no structural damage so it's unlikely Anthony misses extended time. In the immediate future, however, with Lance Thomas (concussion) also out for New York, the Knicks will be forced to lean heavily on Derrick Williams at small forward, with Thanasis Antetokounmpo, who recently signed a 10-day contract, potentially being thrust into an increased role. Coach Derek Fisher will move Langston Galloway into the starting lineup at shooting guard, while Arron Afflalo shifts up to small forward. Anthony's next chance to play will come Sunday against the Nuggets.