Suns Sign Warrick, Stoudemire's Sun is Setting
The Phoenix Suns have come to terms with PF Hakim Warrick. The contract is reportedly for four years/$18M, in a report from Yahoo! Sports. The signing of Warrick and the re-signing of Channing Frye have every sign pointing to star forward Amar'e Stoudemire leaving Phoenix.
Before free agency began, it appeared as if Stoudemire was going to be staying. He publicly expressed how he like the direction the team was going under (now former) general manager Steve Kerr, along with the fact that he and that his agent, Happy Waters, were under great terms, and all signs pointed to a new deal.
Then Kerr stepped down after owner Robert Sarver reportedly wanted him to take a pay cut, and combined with the desire to spend more time with his family, Kerr left, leaving Sarver to do the negotiations primarily. While Stoudemire wanted to evaluate all his options, including interest from the New York Knicks, Miami Heat, and other teams, Sarver could not wait.
Phoenix did offer Stoudemire a maximum contract, with only the first three years guaranteed. Concerns over past injuries led to them including incentives in the contract, while the New York Knicks are ready to make a max deal with Stoudemire, and the Heat are looking at him as an alternative should Chris Bosh decide to go elsewhere. Look for the Houston Rockets as a sign-and-trade suitor.
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