After missing out on signing Milwaukee-bound Greg Monroe, the New York Knicks are focusing on closing a deal with Robin Lopez, reports Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski. New York is offering him about $12 to 13 million.
Knicks, Robin Lopez discussing deal worth about $12 million, per report
The Lakers are also a candidate for the big man from Portland.
Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports
The Lakers are also a serious candidate for Lopez, per Wojnarowski. Lopez entered free agency after spending the past two seasons with the Trail Blazers, where he established himself as a solid defensive anchor and killer offensive rebounder. With news that LaMarcus Aldridge won't return to Portland, the front office has been trying to get younger and has not prioritized bringing its free agents back.
The Knicks are trying to land his services to fill the hole they have at starting center after missing out on Monroe, but Los Angeles is also trying to make a splash after Aldridge and DeAndre Jordan are unlikely to sign with them.
In New York, Lopez could provide a steady defensive presence thanks to his above-average rim protection. However, there are concerns about his ability to clean up the defensive glass, and his lack of a polished post game makes him an awkward fit for the triangle offense. With other options drying up, though, the Knicks need to add quality players fast, and Lopez is among the best big men that remain available in free agency.
Last season, Lopez averaged 10 points and seven rebounds in 28 minutes per game.
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