The New York Knicks had interest in Nicolas Batum during the 2016 offseason.
New York envisioned adding both Batum and Joakim Noah to their starting lineup. Batum would have to take less money than the five-year, $120 million deal he signed with the Charlotte Hornets while also adapting to the usage rates of Derrick Rose and Carmelo Anthony.
“There were options with other teams and different scenarios. But I tried to look at what suited me best, and look at this franchise long term. Having Kemba (Walker) under contract, having MKG (Michael Kidd-Gilchrist) under contract, having Frank [Kaminsky] under contract, having Coach Clifford under contract, we have the same core.
“Me personally, I won’t change my game. I got paid because I play a certain way, and especially with this team.”
The Knicks eventually signed Courtney Lee, who finished last season with the Hornets.
