Stoudemire has surgery, won't play for Suns this year

PHOENIX -- The guessing game regarding Amare Stoudemire's return ended this week. The Phoenix Suns' All-Star forward will not play again this season.

Stoudemire underwent arthroscopic surgery Wednesday on his right knee, a procedure to remove debris that had built up as he rehabilitated his left knee following surgery before the season began.

Instead of welcoming their forward back for a possible run at an NBA title, the Suns will have to make do with a small lineup.

"We will just have to find some energy and go ahead," Suns coach Mike D'Antoni said.

Stoudemire's operation followed a comeback that lasted three games. He missed the first 66 games of the season after surgery on his left knee.

Stoudemire's surgery Oct. 11 came a week after he signed a five-year contract extension worth more than $70 million. He returned to the lineup March 23, scoring 20 points in 19 minutes against Portland. But his production dropped dramatically in his next two games, and Stoudemire's mobility was a problem.