Azubuike waived

 ORLANDO -- The Knicks announced tonight that Kelenna Azubuike has been waived. The 6-5 guard, who was part of the David Lee sign-and-trade with Golden State, never was able to prove himself physically ready to step into a rotation role. Azubuike was inactive the entire season while recovering from a ruptured patella tendon, which he suffered in Nov. 2009 with the Warriors.

Azubuike had been practicing for about two months but had a few minor setbacks. Recently, however, he was feeling good and keeping pace in the scrimmages. Last week, Azubuike said he was told by the coaching staff to get himself up another notch to make a case for playing time. But even Azubuike admitted that he was only at about 80 percent and lacked the explosion he once had.

The move clears room for Jared Jeffries, who will be signed tomorrow once he clears waivers. 

Corey Brewer is also expected to be waived tomorrow, which would open a second roster spot. The Knicks are eyeing another big man to add to the roster.