The New York Knicks still want to upgrade their point guard position and talented lead guard Nick Van Exel still wants to become a Knick. The Knicks' Antonio McDyess and the Timberwolves' Sam Cassell also want Van Exel to join the Knicks.

Van Exel and McDyess, former teammates in Denver, talk about it all the time, Van Exel said. Cassell offered his opinion when he was asked if he was surprised Latrell Sprewell was traded for Keith Van Horn. Cassell replied, "The Knicks need Nick Van Exel right now."

Van Exel went from Dallas to Golden State on Aug. 18, and can't be moved before Oct. 18. It's clear Van Exel doesn't want to stay in Golden State. Knicks' general manager Scott Layden has tried to acquire Van Exel before. So Van Exel continues to hope.

"I would love to play for the Knicks," he said. "I'm hoping. That's all I can do."