After reaching a buyout with the New York Knicks, Amar’e Stoudemire was waived by the team and is now a free agent.
As ESPN noted, the Knicks made the official announcement on Monday and released a statement from the former All-Star.
"I feel truly blessed to have been able to play for the incredible New York fans, Mr. Dolan, my coaches, teammates and the entire Knicks organization for the past five years," Stoudemire’s statement read. "I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to contribute positively on the court and in the community. Although I leave the Knicks with a heavy heart, I wish the organization the best of luck. Once a Knick always a Knick."
USA Today reported that the 32-year-old was open to the buyout, which took place Sunday, because he wanted to join a contender.
So now the questions are out of the contenders, which team will be the best fit for Stoudemire and what team will sign him?
Nothing needs to be said for his career numbers, they speak for themselves.
Stoudemire is a former rookie of the year and six-time All-Star. However, his time in New York was plagued by nagging injuries and he hasn’t played a full season since 2010. You may think the latter stat would scare off some contenders, but several teams have already expressed interest in him.