After failing to trade Mindaugas Kuzminskas, the New York Knicks have decided to waive him.
"The respect this franchise has for Mindaugas cannot be overstated," Knicks general manager Scott Perry said in a team statement released on Sunday, adding it was an "extremely tough" decision to let him go.
Kuzminskas recently voiced his disappointment in his severely reduced role this season. He played only two minutes the entire campaign, going 0-of-2 from the field against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday.
The 28-year-old averaged 6.3 points, 1.9 rebounds, and one assist over 68 games as a rookie with the Knicks last year. He's owed about $3 million this season.
In addition to his unhappiness, New York looked to deal the Lithuanian forward because it needed to open up a spot on the roster for the return of Joakim Noah.
The former DPOY missed the last 20 games dating back to last season while serving a suspension for violating the league's anti-drug policy. The 32-year-old, who last suited up in February, is set to return Monday against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Related - Noah ready to work after suspension: 'It's been very humbling'
