Friday's edition of the New York Post reports that Stephon Marbury and Donnie Walsh had 45 minutes of "preliminary discussions" about a contract buyout that would end Marbury's time as a Knick.

Marbury does not have an agent and was represented at the meeting by National Basketball Players Association attorney Hal Biagas.

Marbury requested permission to talk with other clubs, a wish that Walsh is expected to grant soon.  Marc Berman cites a team source saying that Marbury could be a free-agent in a week.

The Heat and Celtics may have interest in bringing Marbury aboard.  But as a condition of granting permission to find a new employer, Walsh may want Marbury to agree that he will not sign with an Eastern Conference team.  Marbury reportedly would like to play for the Spurs.  

The Knicks would be expected to sign Patrick Ewing Jr. to fill their available roster spot.

Further reading: Why isn't Stephon Marbury jumping at the chance to earn his full $22M and play for a team that actually wants him?