New York, NY (Sports Network) - The New York Knicks have told disgruntled guard Stephon Marbury to stay away from the team until his contract situation can be worked out.
Marbury, who is being paid $21.7 million this season and is in the final year of his contract, was suspended for one game, without pay, for refusing to play in last Wednesday's game against Detroit. Marbury and NBA Players' Association representative, Hal Biagas, met Monday with Knicks president Donnie Walsh, trying to resolve the issue on a possible contract buyout.
"After meeting with Stephon and his representative this afternoon, we have directed Stephon not to participate in practice or attend games until further notice," Walsh said in a statement. "We want to continue to meet with him to discuss a long-term resolution."
The enigmatic Marbury has not played this season and has been at odds with new coach Mike D'Antoni, who had apparently planned to use the Brooklyn native in a very limited role this year.
Marbury did not play the season-opener against Miami, then was placed on the inactive list. The roster situation changed dramatically recently when the Knicks traded guards Jamal Crawford and Mardy Collins, and last week lost guard Nate Robinson to a groin strain.
According to the New York Post, last Wednesday was the second instance in which Marbury was asked to play and refused.
The Knicks are on the hook for Marbury's huge salary this season. If the club waives him, Marbury will inevitably clear waivers in two days and become a free agent.
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Marbury averaged 13.9 points and 4.7 assists per game last season. A two-time NBA All-Star, Marbury has averaged 19.7 points and 7.8 assists in 823 games over his 12-year career with Minnesota, New Jersey, Phoenix and New York.
