Restricted free agents David Lee and Nate Robinson have spoken to each other during the July free-agency period and feel "disrespected" by the Knicks' lack of urgency in retaining their services, according to a source.
Perhaps Donnie Walsh can do something about it as he bolted the Las Vegas summer league for New York yesterday to hone in on his next moves, with the Carlos Boozer sweepstakes, Tim Thomas' free-agency, the Andre Miller situation and Lee/Robinson on his agenda. The Knicks would love to arrange a three-team deal for Boozer, who has one year left on his pact, with Lee a pawn. Utah plans to match Portland's offer sheet for Paul Millsap, which would leave the Trail Blazers cap room to snag Lee in a three-team deal. Utah is bent on unloading Boozer's contract.
Agent Arn Tellem said yesterday he is talking to several teams about Tim Thomas, including the Knicks . The signing would make most sense if Lee is not retained.
Walsh's biggest regret last season was trading Thomas for Larry Hughes at the trading deadline and he could be had for the $1.9 million veteran's minimum. Walsh is also exploring whether to offer Miller a one-year, $5.8 million mid-level offer.
As first reported by the Post, Lee's unresolved contract situation will keep him on the sideline during next week's USA Basketball minicamp in Las Vegas. Lee will travel to Las Vegas but will not take part in competition.
