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Source: Robin Lopez Set To Join Knicks

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Center Robin Lopez will be joining the Knicks and turning New York's NBA rivalry into a family affair, sources said Friday.

Lopez, 27, agreed to sign with the Knicks on Friday, a person with knowledge of the details said, and will play just across town from twin brother and Brooklyn Nets center, Brook.

Lopez -- averaged 9.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in 27.8 minutes for the Trail Blazers last season. He missed 23 games because of a broken hand.

Robin Lopez will leave the Portland Trail Blazers to fill the open spot in the middle for the Knicks, the person told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because contracts can't yet be signed. Yahoo Sports reported Lopez would receive a four-year deal worth $54 million.

Lopez wrote on Twitter that he was ''excited to part of the #Knicks legacy,'' adding that it would be like the musical ''On the Town'' only with ''way more box outs & dunks.''

The Knicks have been seeking a center since trading Tyson Chandler last summer. They had also spoken to DeAndre Jordan and Greg Monroe before those players chose to go elsewhere.

Robin Lopez's decision comes just days after Brook Lopez agreed to stay with the Nets for a reported $60 million over three years.

For his career, Lopez has averaged 8.2 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks.

The 7-footer would give New York some much-needed size. He's regarded as a strong defender and rebounder.

After agreeing to a two-year, $16 million deal with shooting guard Arron Afflalo, the Knicks have roughly $19 million in cap space to play with.

The Knicks met with Jordan on Thursday and were set to meet with LaMarcus Aldridge, but the four-time NBA All-Star abruptly cancelled the meeting on Thursday afternoon.

The Knicks are coming off a disastrous 17-65 season, the worst in franchise history.

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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