Charlotte, N.C. ? Jonathan Bender’s return to the NBA after being sidelined for more than three years will have to wait a few more games.

New York Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni deactivated Bender from Tuesday’s game against Charlotte and says he likely wouldn’t play Thursday in Chicago either. The 7-footer is attempting a comeback from a serious right knee injury.

D’Antoni says he doesn’t want to throw Bender out there after only two practices.