Amar'e Stoudemire appreciates the Knicks' position in removing him from this summer's national team.

"I understand the New York Knicks' concern, also wanting to make sure I'm totally healthy for next season," Stoudemire said. "I'm looking forward to having a big year with the Knicks organization, so I understand both sides."

If a team cannot obtain insurance on a player, that team can stop the player from participating in events during the off-season.

"He had to pull out because he couldn't get insurance on his knees. So, he's not able to play," Mike D'Antoni said. "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."