Amare Stoudemire, a player who’s been linked extensively to the Nets the past few trade deadlines and is a reported top target for New Jersey this summer, is apparently being receptive to staying with the Phoenix Suns a few more seasons, NBA Fanhouse is reporting:
But according to sources with knowledge of the situation, Phoenix is now determined to keep the five-time All-Star and has offered a contract extension as recently as last week. While the terms of the offer are not known, a source close to the 27-year-old Stoudemire said of the proposal, “they’re getting closer [financially] to where they should be.”
Personally, this could be a blessing in disguise for the Nets. While Stoudemire is clearly better than anyone the Nets put out there at the four this past season, I have doubts about his long-term viability coming off his knee injuries. His rebounding rate is down from his peak years a few years ago, and I would prefer the Nets get a more defensive-minded, rebounding-type at PF. I’m not sure Stoudemire is that player.
