The Miami Heat added veteran free-agent Amare Stoudemire on Friday to further solidify their ever-changing bench.
While Miami did not officially announce the terms of the deal, it is worth a reported $1.4 million and is for one year.
Stoudemire was quick to announce the move on social media. The veteran posted a picture on Instagram of his contract signing, and then tweeted it out as well.
It's official. miamiheat From Polk County To Dade County. #FloridaBoy MIAMI STANDUP !! @… https://t.co/4wZb7AXJeq — Amar'e Stoudemire (@Amareisreal) July 10, 2015
Stoudemire will fill in behind Chris Bosh and Hassan Whiteside, and could ultimately replace Chris Andersen on the roster. Despite not being an All-Star caliber player anymore, Stoudemire can still be productive.
“We are very fortunate that a proven All-Star like Amar’e has chosen the Miami Heat,” said HEAT President Pat Riley in a statement. “He is going to bring gravitas, leadership and a hardworking mentality to our team as we look to win another Championship in Miami.”
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After making the All-Star team for four straight seasons, Stoudemire bolted the Phoenix Suns for the New York Knicks in 2010. Stoudemire signed a large contract and was expected to help bring a title to Madison Square Garden. Things however did not exactly go to plan.
While in New York, Stoudemire was only an All-Star one more time and that came in his first season of play. Across parts of five seasons for the Knicks, Stoudemire started under 50 games in four of them. The big man's production went down across the board as injuries piled up.
In February of this past season, the Knicks moved on from Stoudemire by buying out his contract. After New York waived Stoudemire, the Dallas Mavericks swooped in and signed him. In Dallas, Stoudemire was productive and showed glimpses of his old self. While he was not putting up All-Star numbers, Stoudemire helped Dallas remain competitive and showed he still has more in the tank.
Miami should remain active in the days ahead as it looks to continue a reshaping of its roster.
