Knicks' Willy Hernangomez: Will stick in starting role Thursday

Hernangomez will start at center Thursday against the Cavaliers, Ian Begley of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis:

There was some thought that Joakim Noah (hamstring) would return to action Thursday following an extra week of recovery due to the All-Star break, but Noah apparently aggravated the injury last week and hasn't fully recovered. Until the veteran resumes practicing and receives clearance to play again, it looks like the Knicks will lean on Hernangomez as their primary option at center. During Noah's five-game absence, the rookie has averaged 9.0 points, 9.0 boards, 1.4 assists and 1.4 steals in 22.8 minutes per game and is shooting 54.5 percent from the field.