Report: Knicks preparing offer for Brand

The New York Knicks are preparing a contract offer for veteran Elton Brand, and the interest appears mutual, according to an ESPN.com report.

Brand, an unrestricted free agent, started just 18 games for the Dallas Mavericks last season, while appearing in a total of 72. He averaged

7.2 points and six rebounds a game. Should Amare Stoudemire's minutes be limited next season, as expected, Brand could factor in a significant role off the bench.

Brand could also compliment Andrea Bargnani, who was reportedly acquired Monday from the Toronto Raptors for guard Steve Novak, center Marcus Camby, forward Quentin Richardson, a 2016 first-round pick and second-round picks in 2014 and 2017.