New York Knicks forward Amar'e Stoudemire
Dec 18, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Knicks forward Amar'e Stoudemire (1) and Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler (21) attempt to get a loose ball during the first quarter at United Center. REUTERS/Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

Amar'e Stoudemire time with the New York Knicks is over after both sides agreed to a contract buyout over the All-Star Weekend in the National Basketball Association, or NBA. Frank Isola of the New York Daily News tweeted the development late Sunday and the veteran power forward can now choose to sign with any team after he clears waivers.

Stoudemire signed a huge five-year deal worth nearly $100 million with the Knicks back in 2010 making him one of the highest paid players in the NBA at that time and for the duration of the contract. Except for his first year in New York, Stoudemire never lived up to the expectations or the value of the contract as the often-injured big man struggled to stay in the floor.

After averaging 25.3 points and 8.3 rebounds in 2010-2011, Stoudemire saw a dip in production logging in just 17.5 points and 7.8 rebounds per game the following season. Struggling with various injuries to his knees and back, Stoudemire’s numbers continued to go down the next three years. In this season, 2014-2015, Stoudemire has been serviceable of sorts averaging 12.0 points and 6.8 rebounds but was never considered part of the the Knicks’ long-term plan.

During his prime, mostly with the Phoenix Suns where he played from 2002 to 2010, Stoudemire was known as an athletic big man who attacked the rim and the boards relentlessly. His partnership with then-Phoenix point guard Steve Nash made the Suns one of the most exciting teams in the league. Stoudemire’s athleticism is not the same anymore as seen in his time in New York but he remains a potent offensive threat and could attract teams looking for an extra big man.

Among the teams reportedly interested in Stoudemire are the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Clippers-- all looking for an extra big body they can use especially in the upcoming NBA Playoffs.

To contact author of this article, email j.quizon@IBTimes.com.au.

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