Knicks F Stoudemire not ready to return

New York Knicks coach Mike Woodson told reporters after Saturday's practice that forward Amar'e Stoudemire will not be able to play until at least Game 3 of their second round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers.

The series starts on Sunday at Madison Square Garden.

Stoudemire is recovering from right knee surgery.

The Knicks will likely be without guard Steve Novak on Sunday. Novak missed Friday's first round series-clinching win over the Boston Celtics with back spasms.

Forward Carmelo Anthony has a sore shoulder but his playing status for Game 1 does not appear to be in doubt.