Bad news on the Knick free-agent front: Their top priority at center, 7-foot Rasho Nesterovic, received an offer Wednesday from the Timberwolves, beginning at a wage greater than the $4.9 million exception, sources said.

The length of the deal is unknown - the Timberwolves could go as long as seven years - but it's known agent Bill Duffy considers it a fair offer. "No decision's been made," a source familiar with the negotiations said.

A league source said Knicks GM Scott Layden has yet to make an official offer but the only way he'll have a chance is if he goes the maximum length of six years. Layden can offer a wage beginning only at $4.9M but he can add a player opt-out after three years, then redo the pact.

Sources said Nesterovic felt under utilized and unappreciated in Minnesota. He was looking for a change of scenery and likes New York. However, sources said things improved last season, particularly his relationship with Kevin Garnett.

Meanwhile, agent Mark Bartlestein said the only way the Knicks can snare center Brad Miller is through a sign-and-trade, while Michael Olowokandi is the favorite in Denver.