NEW YORK — In the end, there was peace — but no more World Peace — with the Knicks.
The Knicks on Monday night waived veterans Metta World Peace and Beno Udrih, as expected. World Peace had been at odds at times with Knicks management over his lack of playing time, but he and they exchanged nothing but pleasantries at the conclusion of the Queensbridge native’s less-than-triumphant return to his hometown.
World Peace, 34, who took the subway to the Knicks’ home opener this season, said in a statement: “It was a childhood dream of mine to play basketball professionally in New York City, and it has truly been a blessing for that dream to have come true. However, under current circumstances, my agent and I have agreed that being bought out would be the best option for me professionally. I would like everyone to know that whether I was on the court or off, I could not have been happier playing for and cheering on this amazing city, my city. Lastly, I would like to thank all of the incredible fans of New York, as well as my teammates, my coach and the Knicks’ owner for the wonderful opportunity to play in my hometown.”
World Peace (the former Ron Artest) appeared in 29 games and averaged 4.8 points in 13.4 minutes. He frequently tweeted humorous comments about his lack of playing time.
Udrih, 31, signed as the third-string point guard, did not earn the confidence of coach Mike Woodson when pressed into a starting role because of injuries.
Udrih played in 31 games (12 starts). He averaged 5.6 points in 19.0 minutes. He did not play in his final 13 games on the roster.
“We are disappointed that it did not work out for Beno and Metta here in New York,” Knicks president Steve Mills said in a statement. “We thank them for their contributions this season and wish them well.”
World Peace and Udrih, who both have won NBA titles, agreed to contract buyouts so they could presumably sign on with a contender for the rest of the season.
The Knicks now have two roster spots to fill. Woodson said before Monday night’s game against Dallas that he would like to add “a guy that can defend a little bit at the perimeter spot … and maybe another big.”
Among the players who are available are Ben Gordon, Antawn Jamison, Earl Clark and Roger Mason. The Knicks could also re-sign forward Ike Diogu, whom they waived in training camp.
Woodson said he would talk with Mills on Tuesday and see who fits the Knicks’ needs best.