The New York Knicks are 15-23 for the season, certainly a disappointing win-loss total, but have played better basketball lately and were on a five-game winning streak before losing in Charlotte to the Bobcats on Tuesday. Things seem to be getting better. The Knicks have reason to assume they will continue to creep up the Eastern conference standings.

But, J.R. Smith drama continues, in the form of zero minutes played Tuesday, with no explanation from head coach Mike Woodson.

According to the New York Daily News, " “I’m not even commenting on J.R.,” Woodson said gruffly after the game. “I just didn’t play him tonight. I didn’t play him.” Woodson also declined comment when asked later if Smith would play Thursday in Indiana, but the timing certainly seemed odd — even for this ongoing, sideshow storyline. Smith had totaled 52 minutes and scored 24 points over the previous two games following a one-game benching last Thursday against the Heat, one day after he was fined $50,000 by the NBA for twice attempting to untie an opponent’s shoelaces during games."

“I stopped being surprised after the Miami game,” said Smith to the Daily News.

Smith and the Knicks have enjoyed some exciting times together. But one has to wonder if the union may come to an end in the near future.

The Knicks are on the road Thursday, facing the Indiana Pacers, who as of Wednesday morning have the best record in the NBA.