A look at some free agent news from around the NBA today:

Dirk opts out, will test free agency

From the AP, Dirk Nowitzki has notified the Dallas Mavericks he is opting out of the final year and $21.5 million on his existing contract.

Dallas had been discussing an extension with Nowitzki, but it would’ve been for only three years. He can get a four-year contract as a free agent, and perhaps a no-trade clause, something his existing deal lacks.

Yao’s out

As expected, Yao Ming will accept his one-year option with the Rockets and not enter free agency this season, according to KRIV-TV in Houston.

Yao didn’t play at all last season because of a broken foot and taking the $17.69 is the smart choice.

Stoudemire’s knees worry Suns

From the Arizona Republic, “The Suns saw MRI exams on (Amar’e Stoudemire’s) knees recently and remain concerned.”

If this keeps the Suns from offering a max deal, Stoudemire likely would say goodbye to Phoenix.

If that happens, Knicks forward David Lee will become the Suns’ priority, according to Yahoo.com.