The Knicks signed point guard Frank Williams, taken No. 25 in the draft, to a three-year contract, as expected. Today, they plan to intensify discussions with the agent for center Rasho Nesterovic.

Nesterovic, a 7-footer who averaged 6.3 points and 5 rebounds for the Minnesota Timberwolves over the last four seasons, is currently training at home in Slovenia. His agent, Bill Duffy, said he would meet today with Scott Layden, the Knicks' president and general manager, in New York. Layden was unavailable for comment.

Duffy said Nesterovic's interest in the Knicks was very strong and said "I think it's mutual."

Because Nesterovic is a restricted free agent, the Timberwolves can match any offer the Knicks make — as much as the $4.7 million mid-level exception, if not more. Another option for the Knicks could be a sign-and-trade with Minnesota, once the free-agent signing period begins July 17.

The Knicks had made preliminary inquires about the free-agent centers Keon Clark and Jerome James, but according to their agents, Layden had not yet called back to arrange interviews .

The Knicks also began concentrating on their summer-league efforts by having Williams, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound guard, under contract so he can participate in the 9 a.m. practice today at the Westchester County Center in White Plains.

Williams's contract is worth $2.68 million over three years, with a club option for the fourth year.

Williams will join a roster of 15 players preparing for the Shaw's Pro Summer League in Boston that begins next Monday. Included in the camp are guard Lavor Postell, the Knicks' second-round pick from 2000, and the 7-1 center Eric Chenowith, the Knicks' second-round pick from 2001.