The New York Knicks were seeking a defensive-minded guard in free agency, but they didn't get their guy.

SNY's Ian Begley reported that Dante Exum was considering the Knicks before re-signing with the Mavericks.

Exum was the No. 5 pick in the 2014 NBA Draft by Utah out of Australia.

He never broke through as an offensive player but has always been an intriguing defender at a lanky 6-foot-5.

Exum actually had a bit of an offensive breakthrough for Dallas this past season, too, averaging 8.7 points and 2.8 assists per game.

The big guard will turn 30 years old on July 13.

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The Knicks' two key offseason additions are great offensive players: guard Jordan Clarkson and big guy Guerschon Yabusele.

New York's starting five is pretty much set in place, too. They really could just use a defensive stopper off the bench.

Maybe they'll go after Ben Simmons, who is still available as a free agent. But the options are dwindling, and now Exum is off the board.

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