The Chicago Knicks movement is officially out in full force.
After rattling the basketball universe by trading for Derrick Rose on Wednesday, the New York Knicks could now make a run at Rose’s longtime Bulls teammate Joakim Noah, according to a report by Ian Begley of ESPN.
With Derrick Rose on board, some in the Knicks organization want to make a run at Joakim Noah. Details: https://t.co/N8YU0Sddru
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 22, 2016
Begley cites Noah’s closeness with Rose, his “good relationship” with Knicks star forward Carmelo Anthony and the fact that Noah grew up in New York. The report also mentions that the team will have over $30 million of cap room to go into free agency with this summer and that Dwight Howard would consider signing with them (though Howard seems likely to command max-level money, and it’s not sure at this point if the interest is at all mutual).
The Knicks suddenly have a decent-sized hole in their frontcourt after attaching Robin Lopez to the Rose deal. They have the dollar figures necessary to go after the top brand-name big men on the market this offseason such as Howard, Al Horford, and Pau Gasol. But Noah could represent the perfect middle ground for them. Looking to rebuild his value after an injury-ravaged, role-diminished last couple of seasons, the former Defensive Player of the Year may have to settle for a cheap, short-term deal, perhaps similar to what Rajon Rondo got from the Kings last summer. Noah is a team-first player who doesn’t require a lot of touches on offense, but can create opportunities from the high post when need be. He would also help provide the Knicks with a strong defensive identity, something they haven’t really had for the last several seasons running.
The Knicks will probably have to repel other challengers (including Noah’s former head coach in Chicago) to land the two-time All-Star. But it’s a possibility they should definitely explore as Noah’s potential fit in New York goes well beyond just the familiarity factor.
H/T NBA Reddit
