Amar’e Stoudemire is not the most loquacious of N.B.A. stars, but he can convey a powerful message with an economy of words and gestures.

Two summers ago, he put on a blue “NYK” cap and boldly declared, “The Knicks are back.” A depressed fan base perked up and dared to believe again. The Knicks were back because he said so.

Late Monday night, Stoudemire affirmed the Knicks’ return to dysfunction, without saying a word. His impulsive punch through a plate-glass fire extinguisher door probably ended his season and surely hastened his team’s exit from the playoffs. The Knicks trail the Miami Heat, 2-0.

Stoudemire had surgery Tuesday to repair a small muscle in his left hand. He is out for Game 3, doubtful for Game 4 and then will be reassessed — though the Knicks may be gone by then.