Johnson Back for Knicks, but Ewing Still Uncertain

Help is on the way for the New York Knicks.

Larry Johnson returns from suspension for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals tonight at Indianapolis. But the more intriguing development--the availability of Patrick Ewing--remained uncertain Wednesday.

“It will really give them an emotional lift,” Indiana Pacer forward Dale Davis said of the possible return by Ewing, who hasn’t played since fracturing his right wrist Dec. 20. “That’s the kind of team they are. They’re a tough team and with him they’ll be more effective.”

New York Coach Jeff Van Gundy said Ewing on Wednesday had his most physical practice since the injury, but had still not received medical clearance to play.

“When I get that clearance, he’ll play,” he said. “When that will be, I don’t know.”

Johnson missed Game 1 on Tuesday in which Indiana overcame a 19-point deficit to win, 93-83. He was completing the two-game suspension for fighting with Miami’s Alonzo Mourning in Game 4 of New York’s first-round series.

*

Houston Rocket guard Mario Elie was pistol-whipped and his Mercedes-Benz stolen when he stopped at a Houston intersection at 2:20 a.m. Wednesday morning.