In one week, Frank Williams went from starting for the Knicks, looking like a potential point guard of the future, to being a hot trade rumor.

While Williams put on a brave face yesterday following the Knicks’ Tuesday acquisition of Stephon Marbury, it’s known new boss Isiah Thomas is shopping Williams around the league.

And more bad news for Williams’ Knick future came when sources said the Knicks are pressing to re-acquire Charlie Ward, who was dealt to Phoenix in the Marbury trade and then waived by the Suns.

Despite having not spoken with Thomas or coach Don Chaney, Williams knows his days with the Knicks could be numbered.

“I’m aware of it, but I’m not worried about it,” Williams said. “It happens.”

Williams, who was held out of practice again with a strained groin, is doubtful for tonight’s game against Houston but hopes to be available again Saturday.

“Nobody has talked to me yet,” Williams said. “I’d like to clear things up.”

While Williams heals, newly acquired Moochie Norris is backing up Marbury. Chaney said that might not change even when Williams comes back – if he comes back.

“He’s going to have to fight for a job now,” Chaney said. “Frank, Moochie, Penny [Hardaway], they’re all in that group together, and whoever shows me the most will get the most time.”

Chaney made clear yesterday that no point guard other than Marbury was safe.

When asked about his reaction to Marbury’s arrival, Chaney said, “I got down on my knees and thanked God that we got a true point guard in here.”

Hardly overwhelming support for Williams.

Still, Williams said, “Any time you can get a great player, it helps the team. I can’t let it get me down. I can learn the game for him. I’m just going to have to make room for myself here.”

Allan Houston hopes that’s what Williams does.

“He should look at this as an opportunity,” Houston said.

“All good players have to go through things like this. I had to do it. You can get better from it.”