After landing Derrick Rose in a big trade with the Chicago Bulls, the New York Knicks reportedly have set their sights on free agent Joakim Noah.
Ian Begley of ESPN New York was the first on this story, noting “some in the Knicks organization want to make a run at Joakim Noah” now that they have Rose secured.
“Noah is close with Rose and has a good relationship with Knicks star Carmelo Anthony,” Begley writes. “He also grew up in New York. The Knicks sent center Robin Lopez to Chicago in the Rose deal and are in need of a big man.”
The relationship that has been developed between Noah and Rose is important, both on and off the court. That said, one wonders if the Knicks would be doubling down on two has-beens, considering Rose’s injury history and Noah’s declining production the past couple of years.
While the need for a big man is surely prevalent, perhaps New York might be better off targeting Dwight Howard, who Begley writes “would consider signing with the Knicks.”
With a lineup of Rose (assuming he’s healthy, which is not exactly a great bet), Anthony, Kristaps Porzingis and Howard, the Knicks could potentially make a deep run in the playoffs. Then again, there is the issue of Howard likely demanding a max deal, which would be a huge hit for New York’s cap.
In the end, perhaps signing Noah (who won’t likely cost too much) and bringing in another veteran on a mid-level exception would be a better route. Whatever the case, it’s crystal clear the Knicks are pushing hard to make some serious noise in the east after three seasons of misery.