NBA Free Agency: One move every team needs to make

New York Knicks: Sign Joakim Noah (because they basically already have)

It’s easy to make bold statements about the Knicks for free agency, especially after they made a blockbuster trade to give Derrick Rose a fresh start (as always, that comes down to health).

Signing Al Horford and Hassan Whiteside — two of the most sought after players on the market — won’t be remotely easy, though, which has caused names like Dwight Howard (how Knicksy would that be?) to appear in their place as the Knicks look to fix their frontcourt after sending away Robin Lopez in the Rose trade.

So, while fans would prefer Whiteside, it’s far less surprising that Noah already looks to be on his way to New York.

Noah was only able to compete 29 games last season due to shoulder issues and was sent to the bench as Fred Hoiberg took over the Bulls. His scoring output and efficiency dropped significantly, but as an impactful defender, strong rebounder and tremendous passer, his averages of 14.5 rebounds and 6.2 assists per 36 minutes last season indicate what he brings to the table in the right role.

Well, while $18 million seems steep (endless contracts will this summer), Tim Bontemps of The Washington Post has reported that Noah to New York for that sum is almost a done deal:

"Multiple sources have told The Washington Post that Noah will almost certainly be joining the New York Knicks after free agency begins, with a salary expected to be about $18 million per year."

For his defense, strong character to establish a tight-knit locker room, and passing, Noah is worth pursuing. And separating a shoulder isn’t the worst injury to come back from either.

Sadly, parting with a ton of cash will be the trend for similar veterans this summer.

Next: Milwaukee Bucks