Stoudemire sees promising future with Phil Jackson at the helm.
New York Knicks star Amar’e Stoudemire has insisted that he wants to stay with the organisation “for life” and is excited about their future.
The 31-year-old’s contract is never far from discussion considering he is earning $21.7m this season and is expected to make $23.4m next season after picking up his player option.
However, his production and minutes have both improved this season and more recently he has played an integral part in the Knicks’ eight-game winning streak which keeps them in the hunt for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Nevertheless, Stoudemire’s contract is seen as arguably the biggest stumbling block in allowing the franchise to rebuild the roster, with Carmelo Anthony expected to test free agency this summer.
Despite the arrival of Phil Jackson as president, the Knicks are expected to be significantly restricted at the end of the season, which will see their attack on the free agency market postponed until the summer of 2015.
However, Stoudemire is optimistic about his long-term future with the organisation given his improved run of form recently and his ability to stay healthy.
The veteran admits that he sees things only getting better with Jackson, and wants to be a part of it moving forward.
“I want to be a Knick for life and win multiple championships here. I don’t want to go anywhere else, especially with (Phil) Jackson coming in,” he said, as reported by Bleacher Report.
“He has an incredible legacy; it’s probably unmatched. With a leader like that, it can only become a positive output with that type of leadership. He’s been around great organizations, from Chicago to L.A., so now joining us with the Knicks, it’s great to see.”
If Stoudemire is willing to take a significant pay cut after next season, then his wish may well come true depending on whether or not he can stay healthy and continue to be productive.
It is also expected that he could fit in well if Jackson decides to bring in the triangle offense, but much depends on what the player himself can prove over the next 12 months.
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