Amar’e Stoudemire’s turbulent time with the New York Knicks is finally over. Stoudemire, who was in the final season of a five-year, $99.7 million contract, reached a buy out agreement with the Knicks and intends to sign with a team in playoff contention after clearing waivers. There were earlier reports that the Golden State Warriors are interested in signing in STAT but recent reports have debunked that. Still there are other big teams reportedly interested in signing Amar’e.
“It’s not an easy decision to make,” Stoudemire told Yahoo! Sports. “Over time, we will see how things pan out. You give yourself a break during the All-Star break. You think about it with your family. … That will give me a good solid week on how to weigh out the rest of the season.”
The Dallas Mavericks are considered the front-runners to sign Stoudemire, sources said last week. A source told ESPNDallas.com that the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns have also expressed interest. Also reportedly in the running is the San Antonio Spurs.
Stoudemire will be officially waived Monday and would thus clear waivers Wednesday at 5 p.m., freeing him to sign with another team.
Claiming Stoudemire off waivers would require that team to absorb Stoudemire’s $23.4 million salary, which essentially rules out that scenario, which means he’ll likely be free to choose his destination.
In 36 games, Stoudemire averaged 12.0 points and 6.8 rebounds.
