GREENBURGH, N.Y. -- New York Knicks point guard Baron Davis says he's "always wanted" to play in Madison Square Garden.

He'll get his opportunity after signing a free-agent contract with the Knicks on Monday morning.

But it's unclear when Davis will be able to hit the Garden floor.

Davis has a herniated disk in his back that he said on Monday could sideline him for 8-10 weeks.

But a source close to Davis told ESPNNewYork.com that 8-10 weeks is a conservative estimate and, if his rehabilitation goes well, he could return in 4-6 weeks "if not sooner."

Said Davis: "For me, it's taking it one day at a time and ... getting as close as I possibly can to practicing to practicing as soon as I possibly can."

Davis joined the Knicks after the Cleveland Cavaliers waived him last week and designated him as their amnesty player so his salary wouldn't count against their cap figure. The Knicks were looking to fortify their backcourt, where they are slated to start third-year Toney Douglas and second-year player Landry Fields.

Davis' one-year deal with the Knicks is at the veteran's minimum of $1.4 million, according to multiple reports.

"Risk-reward is good on this one," Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni said.

Davis played in 58 games last season, averaging 13.1 points and 6.7 assists for the Clippers and Cavaliers. The two-time All-Star has averaged 16.5 points and 7.3 assists since being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets with the No. 3 overall pick in the 1999 draft. Davis last played a full season in 2007-08 with the Golden State Warriors.