Stoudemire has one year remaining on his current contract…
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The New York Knicks have reportedly discussed the possibility of buying out the last year of Amar’e Stoudemire’s contract as they continue to rebuild.
The Knicks went big on Stoudemire in free agency five years ago, and he was considered an integral piece of the puzzle to help restore glory at the franchise.
However, it hasn’t quite worked to plan due to injuries and coaching changes, and it is reported that the organisation are now considering the possibility of buying out the rest of his $23.4m contract with his final year coming next season.
“Amar’e Stoudemire plans to return to the New York Knicks’ lineup Thursday on their British detour against the Milwaukee Bucks. How much longer he remains a Knick is now up for debate,” ESPN’s Ian Begley reported.
“The Knicks, sources told ESPN.com recently, are not looking to move Stoudemire and, at least for now, intend to keep him for the rest of the season.
“But sources say they have discussed internally the possibility of buying out Stoudemire to let him play for a contender if he preferred that route. Stoudemire, of course, would have to agree to such a transaction.”
When Stoudemire has played this season he has played well as he averages 13.1 points per game on 55.8 percent shooting from the field. If he is willing to save the Knicks some money and take a discount then the franchise could be willing to release him.
However, it is widely expected that he will stay loyal to them and they would find it difficult to move his contract which in turn could mean they possibly waive him after the trade deadline if they are set on moving him on in order to create further space.
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