Hazell Stoudemire Killed in Crash, Amar'e Off Knicks Line-Up

Amar'e Stoudemire will miss Monday night's game against the Utah Jazz after rushing home to Florida to be with his family upon hearing the news of his older brother's death.

Hazell Stoudemire, 35, died early Monday morning in a crash on Highway 27 in Polk County, reported the Orlando Sun-Sentinel. His 2007 Cadillac Escalade collided with a tractor trailer in Lake Wales at about 1:42 a.m. Hazell was allegedly driving at high speeds while attempting to pass the tractor trailer. He was not wearing a seatbelt and was declared dead at the scene, reported the New York Times. Authorities are waiting for results to determine whether alcohol played a part in Hazell's death.

I know he's very close to his brother so my heart's out for him, said coach, Mike D'Antoni, after the team's brief practice on Monday, reported ESPN. He cherishes his family; he does a great job of maintaining all the relationships. Like I said, this is just a trying moment for him.

The team did not say when Amar'e is expected to return, but D'Antoni said he can take as much time off as he needs.

My thoughts and prayers and everything's with him, D'Antoni told ESPN. Whatever time he needs to take, he'll take and we'll get him back as soon as possible.

In his place, Jared Jeffries will start against the Utah Jazz. The Knicks will travel to Washington to play the Wizards on Wednesday and return to New York to play the Lakers on Friday.