LAS VEGAS — David Lee says he is frustrated by the lack of progress in negotiations for a new contract with the New York Knicks.

Lee became a restricted free agent on July 1 and the Knicks have said they’d like to keep him, but only at the right cost. New York is trying to save salary cap space for next summer and doesn’t want to spend too much on re-signing its power forward.
Lee understands the Knicks’ position, but said he expected easier negotiations after his strong season in 2008-09. He averaged 16 points and 11.7 rebounds while leading the NBA with 65 double-doubles and finishing third in rebounding.
Because he is unsigned, Lee was forced to sit out the USA Basketball minicamp this week.