New York acquired the veteran guard along with Tim Thomas from the Los Angeles Clippers on Nov. 21 for Zach Randolph and Mardy Collins, but he never played for the Knicks after a physical exam revealed a problem with his heart.

The Knicks chose to let the trade go through, anyway, because moving Randolph's contract freed up salary-cap space for the summer of 2010. Mobley has been away from the team while undergoing additional testing and seeking other opinions.

"Personally, I think it's the best decision if he has to retire," Thomas said after the Knicks' 121-109 victory over New Jersey.

"I mean, basketball's been great to him. He has made a lot of money, he had success and at this point he's in his 11th year or whatever, so I mean, he has a son and his family, and the most important thing is his health. He can always come around and be around and things like that, but the most important thing is his health."

Mobley played 11 games this season for the Clippers, averaging 13.7 points. He was expected to become the Knicks' starter at shooting guard after the trade, since Jamal Crawford was dealt to Golden State in another deal that day.

The Knicks have been playing short-handed, with Stephon Marbury banned from the team while the sides are working toward a buyout, and Nate Robinson injured. They may try to sign another guard, or could go for Patrick Ewing Jr., who was in training camp with them and was the last cut before rosters had to be submitted.

Mobley averaged 16.0 points over 11 seasons for Houston, Orlando, Sacramento and the Clippers. His best season was in 2001-02, when he scored 21.7 points per game.