Amar'e Stoudemire Buyout: Knicks Player Leaving With a 'Heavy Heart'

New York Knicks' Amar'e Stoudemire said he will be leaving his team "with a heavy heart" as he seeks for free agency.

On Monday, the team announced that they have already waived Stoudemire who inked a five-year deal with them last 2010, ESPN said in a report.

"I feel truly blessed to have been able to play for the incredible New York fans, Mr. [James] Dolan, my coaches, teammates and the entire Knicks organization for the past five years. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to contribute positively on the court and in the community," Stoudemire said in a team statement.

"Although I leave the Knicks with a heavy heart, I wish the organization the best of luck," he added.

Team president Phil Jackson recognized the basketball player's efforts for the team but revealed that he "initiated" Stoudemire's movement out of the team.

"His time here should be marked by recognizing his effort -- it was 100 percent. As we move forward in structuring this team, we will look for players that exhibit his desire to win," Jackson was quoted by ESPN as saying.

Meanwhile, Knicks general manager Steve Mills also showed his appreciation to Stoudemire by saying that he has done a lot for the team over the past five seasons.

"We have developed a relationship that has translated into a long-term friendship, and it will continue through the remainder of his NBA career, and beyond," Mills added.

As to which team Stoudemire will be playing next, a USA Today source claimed that he has agreed to join the Dallas Mavericks.

Aside from the Mavericks, the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns have also expressed intention in getting Stoudemire but it seems that he has already made his choice.

USA Today explained that the player will be a great addition to the gameplays of Dirk Nowitzki and Tyson Chandler. Coming into the team, Stoudemire will replace the skill and ability of Brandan Wright who went back to the Phoenix Suns last year because of a trade that helped the Mavs acquire Rajon Rondo.

On the other hand, Sports Illustrated (SI) discussed that playing for the Mavs will be a good thing for Stoudemire as it is "a balanced, veteran team with a friendly internal dynamic."

The SI report added that the team also provides great support to its players and employs a very efficient training staff. A formal announcement of his transfer is now being awaited by his fans who are excited to see what's next for Stoudemire.