Photo: New York Knicks/Twitter

Free agent center Nerlens Noel has attracted “exploratory” interest from the New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, and Charlotte Hornets, according to league sources as reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

Selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2013 draft, Noel is recognized for his athleticism and defensive versatility. Despite these strengths, the 29-year-old has been without an NBA roster spot since being waived by the Kings in September.

In the previous season, he played a limited role, appearing in 17 games for the Pistons and Nets, averaging 2.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.9 steals in 11.5 minutes per game.