KNICK NOTES

As concerned as Jeff Van Gundy is about the microphone issue, he’s equally as opposed to the mandate that practice must be opened to the media for the final 30 minutes.

Van Gundy wouldn’t say if he’s going to fight the practice issue, too. That mandate won’t start until April 1.

Van Gundy said that practice should be “off limits.”

“As much as I don’t like the idea of the microphone I don’t like the idea of opening up practice,” Van Gundy said. “I believe we have a responsibility to promote the league but at some point I believe it’s important someone starts looking out for the game and it’s best interests. There’s certainly better learning that goes on. Better practices are achieved in private than they are in public.”

Van Gundy has already said he will restructure practice in response to the new rules. Van Gundy usually holds his strategy sessions and walk-through period in the final 30 minutes. No longer. The media likely will be stuck with watching players shoot free throws.

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Houston point guard Steve Francis said he “wouldn’t change a thing” regarding his reluctance to play for Vancouver. Francis, who told the Grizzlies not to draft him because he wouldn’t report, eventually forced a trade. Francis has had a standout season, averaging a team-high 17.3 points a game.

… Knicks won’t play again until they visit Charlotte Friday … Knicks routed Rockets in first meeting 101-90 Dec. 14. Knicks had won six of their last seven vs. Houston.