"Jamal Crawford was the first victim two years ago of the Knicks' cap-clearing crusade. And perhaps he can still be part of the future.

Crawford, a free agent this July, said he would "definitely listen" to the overtures from the Knicks, contract-extension talks with Atlanta having hit an impasse.

Crawford thrived in D'Antoni's offense -- as the Knicks got off to a 6-3 start. The Knicks were 6-5 when he was traded for Al Harrington.

And yesterday, in perhaps an audition, Crawford torched his old club with 21 points, 10 in the fourth quarter to repel the Knicks' rally.

"Why not," Crawford said. "I don't think the trade was personal. It was all about 2010 and the players you can possibly get. I love Atlanta. I want to work out an extension here, but if I become a free agent it's not the end of the world."

"I'll definitely listen," Crawford added. "If the extension isn't working out, I would definitely listen for sure. I would meet with them."

The Knicks will have room for a maximum contract in 2011, with Eddy Curry's contract expiring. If Carmelo Anthony is traded to the Nets, the Knicks have room for Crawford and another solid player."