Lamar Odom is no longer a member of the Dallas Macericks.
The former Laker said in a statement:
“The Mavericks and I have mutually agreed that it’s in the best interest of both parties for me to step away from the team. I’m sorry that things didn’t work out better for both of us, but I wish the Mavs’ organization, my teammates and Dallas fans nothing but continued success in the defense of their championship.”
ESPN reports that Odom’s departure from the Mavericks will be immediate. Odom hasn’t been officially released from the team but the Mavericks will list him as inactive for the rest of the season. Odom is not eligible to play in this year’s playoffs with another team since he was not waived before the March 23rd deadline.
Marc Stein writes that Odom may be traded at the end of the season in conjunction with the NBA draft. A team may also decide to buy out Odom’s contract. Odom is scheduled to earn $8.2 million during the 2012-13 season.
Odom has had career low numbers this season with just 6.6 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. Odom’s numbers have been falling throughout the season as have his minutes.
Last month, Odom told Yahoo that he hopes the tough road he’s had this season will lead to a better place. Odom said :
“I’m just trying to understand life, really… You think somebody got it bad and then you turn on the news and read about somebody else’s situation, and they got it just as bad, if not worse, than you do. There is still a lot to smile about even with the trials and tribulations…. I’m one of those dudes who feel like I go through it for a reason. The reason is to make me better.”
