Phil Jackson makes another Splash as Amare says Goodbye to New York

Photo: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

Phil Jackson will stop at anything to rebuild the New York Knicks franchise. Still only in his first year as Knicks President, Jackson has shed hefty contracts, traded problematic players and now his latest move; buying out Amare Stoudemire. The one time franchise player will say goodbye to New York.

Stoudemire was in his fifth and final year of his whopping $100 million dollar contract. Jackson had let it be known earlier this season his intent was not to retain the former all-star. Since coming to New York, Stoudemire has experienced a string of injuries forcing him to miss over 50 games and produce disappointing numbers. His numbers have drastically decreased since the Knicks acquired him from 25points per game and 8 rebounds to a low 12 points and 7 rebounds.

Jackson’s plans are far from over but ridding the Knicks roster of Stoudemire was a gutsy but necessary move. Jackson has his eyes set on some big names including Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol, Detroit Pistons forward Greg Monroe and Dallas Mavericks guard Rajon Rondo. In order for Jackson to reel those big players in, he needs as much flexibility as possible. Jackson doesn’t plan to wait until the season is over to make power moves, he wants to do so now before the February 19th trade deadline.