LAS VEGAS — Amar’e Stoudemire will not play for the United States in next month’s world championships because of problems insuring his contract, a damaging blow to the Americans on the day training camp opened.
The Knicks’ new forward was expected to be one of the Americans’ top players in Istanbul, Turkey, but the team learned of the change of plans Tuesday. Stoudemire could still play in the 2012 Olympics if the insurance issues are resolved.
Stoudemire has had microfracture knee surgery and several injuries, a major reason the Suns wouldn’t offer him a maximum length contract. The Knicks then gave him a five-year deal worth nearly $100 million, even while saying they weren’t sure if the contract could be insured.
According to the Knicks, the insurance policy from Stoudemire’s contract with the Suns is still in place, but it excludes his surgically repaired left knee.
Without proper insurance, NBA teams can prevent players from taking part in summer events.
“He had to pull out because he couldn’t get insurance on his knees. So, he’s not able to play,” said Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni, who is an assistant with the U.S. team. “I don’t know if his (future USA Basketball) status has changed or not. I have no idea. I hate it for him, but it’s business.”
• Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki, citing a desire to concentrate on the upcoming NBA season, will not play for Germany at the world championships.
Miller to back up Yao
HOUSTON — Brad Miller signed with the Rockets, reuniting the 7-foot center with his favorite coach in Rick Adelman.
Miller signed a three-year, $15 million contract to back up Yao Ming, who is expected to be ready for next season after sitting out a year to recover from foot surgery.
Miller, who played for Adelman from 2003-2006 when he coached the Kings, appeared in 82 games last season for the Bulls and averaged 8.8 points and 4.9 rebounds.
Footnotes.
Juwan Howard, who averaged six points in 73 games last season with the Trail Blazers, signed with the Heat — the ninth team for the forward in search of his first championship ring.
• Lakers center Andrew Bynum postponed surgery to correct a meniscus tear in his right knee to Monday.
• The Bulls are finalizing a sign-and-trade deal with the Warriors for guard C.J. Watson. The Warriors would likely receive a 2011 second-round pick.
• The Trail Blazers reached an agreement with restricted free agent Wesley Matthews, a deal that was solidified when the Jazz did not match Portland’s offer for the shooting guard who averaged 9.4 points and 2.3 rebounds in 24.7 minutes last season as a rookie.
The Associated Press
