NBA Rumors: Nerlens Noel Has Drawn Interest from Knicks, Rockets, Hornets

Free agent center Nerlens Noel has drawn "exploratory interest" from several teams looking for front court help, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

These teams include the New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, and Charlotte Hornets. Scotto noted that the Knicks "checked in" on Noel prior to signing Taj Gibson to a 10-day contract, while the Hornets are looking for a center in the wake of Mark Williams' back injury.

Noel last appeared in 17 games for the Brooklyn Nets and Detroit Pistons during the 2022-23 season.

The 29-year-old owns career averages of 7.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 54.6 percent from the field. Although his offensive arsenal is limited, he's able to use his 7'4" wingspan to alter shots at the rim and disrupt passing lanes.

While the former No. 6 overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft may not be a starting-caliber player anymore, he could thrive in a reserve role for a team that is looking for some temporary depth at center.

The Rockets have been searching for a quality backup behind rising star Alperen Şengün, as Jock Landale has struggled mightily throughout his first season in Houston. Noel could help bolster a team that ranks No. 26 in blocks per game despite already owning the No. 6 defensive rating in the association (via NBA.com).

Charlotte also makes sense as a potential option due to the team's injury-plagued 2023-24 campaign. Although Nick Richards has stepped up admirably in Williams' absence, the Hornets have relied on rookie Nathan Mensah as a reserve which has led to some mixed results.

It isn't difficult to see why the Knicks are interested in Noel, as he appeared in 89 games for the team from 2020 through 2022. New York has also experienced its fair share of injuries, as starter Mitchell Robinson and backup Isaiah Hartenstein have both missed time due to ankle and achilles issues, respectively.

Although he hasn't stepped onto an NBA court since March 2023, Noel could find himself back on a roster before the end of the regular season.