Agent Bill Duffy knew the Knicks would again be interested in Timberwolves 7-foot center Rasho Nesterovic come July 1, but even he was impressed by Knicks GM Scott Layden's pitch.

Layden phoned Duffy at three minutes past midnight yesterday morning when free-agent negotiations were allowed to begin, telling the agent Nesterovic was his "No. 1 priority."

Layden also expressed interest in point guard Speedy Claxton, but so did 11 other teams. Claxton already has a visit set up with Orlando.

Duffy also is the agent of Clippers free-agent center Michael Olowokandi, but Duffy said, "Rasho is his No. 1 choice. He told me he thinks Rasho could turn into the best center in the East."

As reported exclusively in Sunday's Post, the Knicks are making another play for Nesterovic after failing last summer. Layden kept with his policy of not commenting on free agency's first day. Nesterovic can be had for the $4.9 million mid-level exception - increased from last year's $4.5M amount - or in a sign-and-trade.