New York Knicks rumors: Philadelphia 76ers unlikely to trade for Amar’e Stoudemire

By Andrew Melnick | Jul 9, 2014

Jan 11, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Knicks power forward Amar /

The New York Knicks seemingly had a plan. President Phil Jackson wanted forward Carmelo Anthony to opt into his deal and the Knicks would do what they could to return to the postseason while keeping an eye on the 2015 offseason. Big men Amar’e Stoudemire and Andrea Bargnani will come off of the books and Memphis Grizzlies’ center Marc Gasol, Portland Trail Blazers’ power forward LaMarcus Aldridge, Minnesota Timberwolves’ power forward Kevin Love and Charlotte Hornets’ big man Al Jefferson can all become free agents.

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However, Anthony opted out of his contract to become an unrestricted free agent, the Knicks are concerned Anthony won’t be willing to wait a year and will be looking for a better situation immediately instead.

That’s why the Knicks are trying to free up cap space now. The Knicks are trying to trade Stoudemire and the Philadelphia 76ers could be a potential destination.

Yannis Koutroupis does not expect the 76ers to trade for Stoudemire.

"No, I don’t see that happening. Hinkie isn’t taking on that contract while the Rockets could still need his help, as wrong as that is. Plus, LeBron’s mind seems made up in the sense that it’s either Cleveland or Miami. As much potential as Phil Jackson holds as a team president, Riley is proven in the role and that means much more to LeBron than what Phil’s done as a coach in the past."

Stoudemire missted only 17 games last season, but his minutes were severely reduced – he played 22.6 minutes per game. He had one of the worst seasons of his career, putting up just 11.9 points and 4.9 rebounds per game while shooting 55.7% from the field and 73.9% from the free throw line. Over his career, he has averaged 20.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.3 blocks in 33.0 minutes per game while shooting 53.5% from the field and 76.2% from the charity stripe.