The New York Knicks and veteran Amar'e Stoudemire agreed to a buyout on Sunday, according to both the New York Daily News and ESPN. A number of teams, including the Dallas Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors, reportedly want to sign Stoudemire. Below are his top three destinations.
1. Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks seem to be the frontrunners for him, according to reports from ESPN and the San Jose Mercury News. The biggest thing working against them is they can only offer Stoudemire a veteran minimum contract.
2. San Antonio Spurs
Yahoo Sports named San Antonio as a "darkhorse" in the Stoudemire sweepstakes. The allure of playing under coach Gregg Popovich could be enough to convince Stoudemire to sign with the reigning NBA champions.
3. Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers snapped their four-game losing streak and entered the All-Star break with two straight wins under their belts. Although Los Angeles has struggled recently, they still have the kind of roster - and an open spot - that could make a deep run in the playoffs. Playing for coach Doc Rivers doesn't hurt, either. They don't have much cap room left, though, so - like with Dallas - Stoudemire would have to accept a veteran minimum deal.
Honorable Mention: Golden State Warriors
The Mercury News reported Golden State as a potential landing spot because of Stoudemire's history in Phoenix with coach Steve Kerr and assistant coach Alvin Gentry. ESPN's Marc Stein, however, reported Golden State doesn't have interest in Stoudemire.
Stein also reported the Portland Trail Blazers and the Memphis Grizzlies, both of whom had been previously reported as having interest in Stoudemire, have no plans of pursuing the veteran.
The Suns were mentioned as another potential landing spot for Stoudemire, who would give them much needed help in their frontcourt. Phoenix is in playoff contention, but playing for a more bona fide contender - like Dallas or San Antonio - would make more sense for Stoudemire. One advantage Phoenix does have, though, is enough cap space to pay Stoudemire more than a minimum contract.
New York officially waived Stoudemire, who's averaging 12.0 points and 6.8 rebounds per game this season, Monday afternoon. If he clears waivers as expected, he will be able to sign with a new team after 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday.
