The veteran forward Joakim Noah was granted time away from the Knicks after at least one heated argument with Coach Jeff Hornacek, according to two people with knowledge of the dispute.

The officially stated reason for Noah’s absence from the Knicks’ last two games was “personal reasons.” But the Knicks and Noah agreed to what amounts to a cooling-off period after an emotional exchange with Hornacek, according to the people, who are not authorized to discuss the situation publicly.

The Knicks declined to comment on Monday.

The argument occurred at the Knicks’ practice on Wednesday in Denver and led to Noah leaving the team.