CHICAGO – Andrea Bargnani is in New York's starting lineup for Thursday night's game at Chicago, giving the Knicks a bigger look against the physical Bulls.
The 7-foot Bargnani had six points in 17 minutes in his first game with New York, which beat Milwaukee 90-83 in its season opener on Wednesday night. Bargnani was acquired in a July trade with Toronto.
Bargnani's addition to the lineup moves guard Pablo Prigioni to a reserve role. Bargnani starts upfront alongside Carmelo Anthony and Tyson Chandler, with Raymond Felton and Iman Shumpert in the backcourt.
Coach Mike Woodson says he plans to use a bigger lineup when the Knicks face these types of teams.
Kenyon Martin is expected to rest against the Bulls, while Amar'e Stoudemire is slated to make his season debut. Stoudemire will be limited to 10 minutes as Woodson tries to keep both big men healthy.