Francis could have returned to Houston

Link:Francis told several NBA players of the buyout talks and that he was hoping to sign with Houston, where he lives during the offseason. Considering Francis’ criticism of Jeff Van Gundy after being traded from Houston to Orlando three years ago, it is unlikely that the Rockets would have signed him.

Before Crawford went down, the Knicks didn’t have a place for Francis. Now, the veteran guard is essential to their playoff run. That is a point that Thomas was trying to get across to him yesterday.

“It’s safe to say,” said Thomas, “we have a very good understanding of how we win games and why we lose games.”