Noel latest in COVID protocol; Obi returns

The Knicks are replacing one of their players in the NBA’s health and safety protocols with another.

Starting center Nerlens Noel became the latest Knick to be sidelined by the COVID-19 spread that has ravaged the league, the team announced Wednesday, but Obi Toppin has been cleared to rejoin the squad.

RJ Barrett, Quentin Grimes, Kevin Knox, Miles McBride and Immanuel Quickley also have missed time, with Noel added to the protocols list for Thursday’s home game against the Wizards.

Toppin and Barrett were the first two Knicks to be sidelined for COVID reasons on Dec. 12, but Barrett and the others still were listed as out on the NBA’s official injury report for Thursday’s games.

The Knicks halted a five-game home losing streak with Tuesday’s win over Detroit, improving to just 6-10 at the Garden this year. They have been better on the road with eight wins in 15 games.

“It’s vital. We’ve got to play a lot tougher here,” coach Tom Thibodeau said. “Being in New York, you’re going to get every team’s best shot. I know what it’s like on both ends. When I was here in the ’90s, what that was like, and then when I was coaching an opponent I know how the players feel about coming to play in Madison Square Garden. It’s a special place. You’re getting their best shot.

“We’ve got to find a way to be ready for that challenge. We’ve got to find a way to win games.”

The Knicks (14-17) also are slated to be home Christmas Day against the Hawks before opening a four-game road trip Dec. 28 at Minnesota.