Knicks Confirm Stoudemire Buyout

After 24 hours of speculation, the New York Knicks confirmed the waiver of veteran forward Amar’e Stoudemire this afternoon.

Stoudemire, who signed as a star free agent in 2010 for $100 million, was integral in helping the Knicks return to the playoffs after seven years of futility. Carmelo Anthony came mid-season and many expected the pair to be a dominant 1-2 punch in the coming years. Unfortunately, debilitating and recurring injuries to both knees kept Stoudemire sidelined for prolonged stretches.

Those injuries would force him to accept minute restrictions and a bench role. After averaging 25 points his first year in New York, Stoudemire’s production has fallen to 12 points the last two seasons.

“I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to contribute positively on the court and in the community,” Stoudemire said in a prepared statement. “Although I leave the Knicks with a heavy heart, I wish the organization the best of luck. Once a Knick always a Knick,”

Stoudemire also took to his Instagram to send out a farewell “poem” to fans.

NY NY what a beautiful city
A place where you can hang out with Anna, JayZ & Diddy

Its a place absent of excuses and patience
If your smart, you can meet leaders of every nation

NY NY big city of dreams
Everything in NY isnt always what it seems

In the land where the jungle is concrete
The money flows Dow Jones and Wall Street

Home of #STATcity and the #Knickstape Orginator,
Shalom to all my fans, Salute to all my haters.

Peace and Love
Amar’e Carsares Stoudemire Sr.

At press time, Stoudemire is seeking to join a championship contender with teams such as the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks showing interest.

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This was the best move for all involved. With the team going nowhere this season and Amar’e’s health disqualifying him from getting another significant contract here, parting ways ASAP made perfect sense. This opens up the roster for the Knicks to call up one of their D-League prospects to get valuable NBA game experience, such as Thanasis Antetokounmpo.

Signing Stoudemire to $100 million was a huge gamble. Ultimately, it was disappointment due to Stat’s body not being able to hold up as a first option, and the fiscal constraints that contract put on acquiring new talent.

If you could go back in time, would you still sign Stat?