NBA Free Agency Rumors: Nicolas Batum Expected to Sign with New York Knicks?

By Carlo Monzon
Nicolas Batum
Nic Batum in 2015. Wikimedia Commons/Hugo THornet

New reports indicate that the New York Knicks will be going after unrestricted free agent Nicolas Batum from the Charlotte Hornets. Given the team's current lineup, Batum will certainly be a good fit for the Knicks.

As already stated in previous reports, the Hornets are focused on re-signing Batum even if he is expected to get max contract. But, since he is a free agent, the small forward will surely receive offers from various NBA teams.

According to ESPN's Ian Begley, the Knicks are already making their move in getting Batum by reportedly scheduling a meeting with the athlete. However, it seems the meeting will not be done face-to-face since it will only be held via telephone.

"The Knicks will get a phone interview with Nic Batum, who is likely to command max - or near max money," Begley tweeted.

If the Knicks are serious enough, then they will probably be able to get Batum for their roster. He will certainly make a good addition to the team especially if placed alongside Carmelo Anthony and Derrick Rose.

But aside from this, Fan Sided noted that Batum can serve as the Knicks' security blanket. After all, despite Rose's talent, he is prone to missing out games due to injuries, which happened when he was with the Chicago Bulls during the past couple of years.

With Batum in the roster, he can immediately pick up Rose's spot since he can easily play guard despite being a small forward.

This certainly fits well with the Knicks' current needs since head coach Jeff Hornacek recently revealed that they are looking for a reliable guard.

"We need a guy at the two spot who can help turn the offense," he said according to Newsday. "Maybe get some kick-out threes. We don't necessarily need a two-man who can create a bunch of plays because we should have guys who are able to do that."

However, if the Knicks really want to get Batum, they better act fast since other teams are also keen on signing him. Aside from the Hornets, the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards are also in line to meet with him.

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