NBA Free Agency: Amar'e Stoudemire the New Big Man In The Big Apple

The rumors have all been true, and it is almost all said and done. The New York Knicks and former Phoenix Suns forward Amar'e Stoudemire have agreed on a five-year, $100 million contract making him the new big man in the Big Apple.

The deal seems to have been in place for days now, considering all the time he has spent with the Knicks organization recently.

After talks between Amar'e Stoudemire and the New York Knicks started to sizzle earlier this week, many fans grew skeptical of the rumors because of the falling-out experienced by Stoudemire and Knicks head coach Mike D'Antoni in Phoenix

All appears to be well now, and Stoudemire will join the run-and-gun offense that he thrives in.

Throughout his career, he has averaged 21.4 points per game. He will provide the Knicks with a more physical presence on offense—something the team has lacked for years.

The 6'10'' forward will also be a small height upgrade, but still isn't that shut down player on defense. But the defensive mind is not what D'Antoni looks for, so Stoudemire fits the system perfectly—and he'll fit well in this lineup if his relationship with Mike D'Antoni holds steady.

What remains to be seen is how the signing affects the remainder of the free agency period for the New York Knicks.

Another pitch will likely be made to LeBron James soon. However, Stoudemire has actively been recruiting Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony and Spurs guard Tony Parker to come join him at the Garden.

The Knicks must still make more moves, whether they qualify as blockbusters or not.

This is a good start and will benefit the up-tempo offense. A better feel for how the team will pan out won't materialize until the Knicks fill out the roster, but this is a good start.