Knicks waive Amar'e Stoudemire

— -- The Knicks waived Amar'e Stoudemire on Monday, ending the former All-Star's injury-plagued tenure in New York.

The sides reached an agreement Sunday on a buyout of Stoudemire's contract with the team, sources confirmed to ESPN. Stoudemire will be a free agent once he clears waivers.

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

"Although I leave the Knicks with a heavy heart, I wish the organization the best of luck. Once a Knick always a Knick."

Stoudemire, who was in the final season of a five-year, $99.7 million contract, intends to sign with a team in playoff contention after clearing waivers.

Claiming Stoudemire off waivers would require that team to abso?rb his $23.4 million salary, which essentially rules out that scenario.

Sources with knowledge of his thinking told ESPN.com that Stoudemire is leaning toward signing with the Dallas Mavericks at this point. Another source told ESPNDallas.com that the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns have also expressed interest.

"Amar'e's period as a Knickerbocker has come to pass, at his request," Knicks president Phil Jackson said in a statement released by 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."

Stoudemire, 32, appeared in just 255 games over his four-plus seasons with the Knicks. The six-time All-Star is averaging 12.0 points and 6.8 rebounds in 36 games this season.