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Andrea Bargnani likes Knicks, but wants the chance at a ring

Joe Camporeale / USA Today Sports

Andrea Bargnani has his eye on that elusive piece of NBA jewelry with his impending free agency. 

The New York Knicks, specifically president Phil Jackson, have reportedly expressed interest in bringing Bargnani back to the team next season, but it sounds like the 7-foot center is considering flying the coop in search of a championship ring. 

"I had a great experience with the Knicks, I liked the city, the team and had a good relationship with Derek Fisher," Bargnani told La Gazzetta DelloSport in an interview obtained by the New York Post's Marc Berman.  

"I wouldn't mind signing with the Knicks if the opportunity comes. I will let my agent do his job starting July 1. I am now a veteran in the NBA, and, you know, I would like to sign with a team that can give me the opportunity to win a ring."

No one is blaming the 29-year-old for implying that the New York franchise is not exactly synonymous with league champions. The Knicks finished the season with the NBA's second-worst record at 17-65.  

"We certainly didn't live up to expectations," said Bargnani. "The beginning of the season we all thought we'd get to the playoffs, then things went differently and, injuries aside, I cannot give a real explanation. For me it was very frustrating not being able to lend a hand to my teammates in the first half of the season. When I came back, I think I did well, so I'm pretty satisfied. In the end of the season, we also found a little confidence with the triangle."

Bargnani was the No. 1 overall pick in 2006 by the Toronto Raptors, becoming just the fourth Italian-born NBA player. In his nine season as a professional player, he had his best shooting performance during the 2009-10 season with the Raptors, going 47 percent from the floor and starting in all 80 games he played in. His time on the court has dipped in recent years, seeing action in 137 games in the past four years. 

Bargnani appeared in 29 games last season, posting 14.8 points and 4.4 rebounds per game while playing through a torn thumb ligament.   

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