WINTER GARDEN, Fla. — Jeff Hornacek said getting a starting center is the Knicks’ priority in free agency and their top target is clear.
The Knicks will meet with former Bulls center Joakim Noah shortly after free agency begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, a league source said. The interest is high on both sides, the source said.
Noah, the son of former tennis star Yannick Noah, is from New York and could reunite with ex-Bulls teammate Derrick Rose. The Knicks acquired Rose a day before last Thursday’s draft. Rose said at his introductory news conference last Friday that he told Noah he wanted him in New York. The two had dinner together last Thursday.
If the Knicks can reach an agreement with Noah, 31, they would have the makings of a playoff team. The former defensive player of the year would be the rim protector and rebounder the Knicks need to add to a starting team that features Carmelo Anthony, Kristaps Porzingis and Rose.
The one concern with Noah is his health. He only appeared in 29 games last season due to a shoulder issue. For his career, he’s averaged 9.3 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.4 blocks.
If the Knicks are able to secure a big man, they will turn their attention to a shooting guard. Nicolas Batum and Kent Bazemore are high on their list but may be too expensive. Other more reasonably priced guards include Courtney Lee, Evan Turner, Eric Gordon and Gerald Henderson.
..... - Newsday