The All-Star festivities came to New York this past weekend, over the same period of time, Amare Stoudemire left. And now, the Associated Press reports that the veteran forward has chosen the Dallas Mavericks as his team for the rest of the season.

A person close to the discussions between the Mavs and Stoudemire said that the former Knick agreed to sign with Dallas after being bought out by New York.

Although multiple reports have already come out, Stoudemire can't make a verbal commitment until he clears waivers Wednesday.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, the source clarified that while the deal isn't yet official, Stoudemire could join the Mavs when they face the Oklahoma City Thunder Thursday.

"I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to contribute positively on the court and in the community," Stoudemire said after his request to be bought out was granted by the Knicks.

"Although I leave the Knicks with a heavy heart, I wish the organization the best of luck. Once a Knick, always a Knick," the 32-year-old said, whose contract was set to expire after the season.

Earlier in the season, Dallas brought in former all-star guard Rajon Rondo from the Boston Celtics as part of the arms race that has pervaded the ultra-competitive Western Conference.

That deal, though, left a void in the frontcourt as they parted with forward Brandan Wright in the trade.

In five seasons with the Knicks, Stoudemire averaged 17.3 points and 6.7 rebounds in 255 games. He helped bring the Knicks to the postseason three times. He also became the Knicks' first All-Star starter in 14 years, when he was voted in back in 2011.

"Amare brought something back to New York that New York was kind of missing and needing for a long time," Carmelo Anthony said.

"When he came, he brought back some of the excitement here for the game of basketball in New York."