By Joseph Goodman

Amar’e Stoudemire wants to win a championship, and he’s now willing to take less money and a reduced role to do it.

Perhaps sensing his opportunity for being a major contributor on a contending team slipping away, Stoudemire agreed to a veteran’s minimum contract last week with the Heat to play reduced minutes behind either Chris Bosh or Hassan Whiteside. Stoudemire spoke with reporters on Monday afternoon — his first media obligation with his new team — and emphasized his desire to compete for a championship.

He gave the same message to team president Pat Riley during an initial meeting about joining the Heat. “I think with Miami, it’s now time to make a push,” Stoudemire said. “I think Riles knew how important it was to me to win now.”

Stoudemire, 32, was waived by the Knicks last February before joining the Dallas Mavericks for the veteran’s minimum. In a reduced role, Stoudemire was an effective offensive option during the Mavericks’ first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets. The Mavericks lost in five games, but Stoudemire averaged 7.8 points and 15 minutes per game.

To continue reading, please visit the Miami Herald.