Jackson reportedly ready to accept front office position.
Former Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson appears to be set to take up a position in the New York Knicks front office, according to ESPN.
As per their league source, the two parties are understood to be continuing with negotiations on the details of the deal, including what Jackson’s title will be, and when he will begin work with the franchise.
It is reported that Jackson’s answer will become official within the next day or so but the Knicks have yet to schedule an announcement but they are willing to offer an integral role as part of the club’s basketball operations.
“The Knicks have a sense of what’s going to happen,” the source said. “And as of right now, it looks like Phil’s taking the job. There’s always the possibility of something falling apart at the last minute, but the Knicks’ sense is that he’s joining them.”
Knicks owner James Dolan will still have a voice in decision-making, but it is clear that he wishes to add experience and a winning mentality to the franchise after their struggles this season have left them fighting for a playoff spot.
Meanwhile, Jackson has previously insisted that he would not want to return to coaching after a series of illnesses and ailments, but has maintained that were he to be offered an intriguing front office role, he would consider it.
It would be a significant boost for the Knicks who are currently on a four-game winning streak with an eye on the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference this season, and while it is unclear as to whether or not he will have an impact on decisions this summer, it could have an influence on Carmelo Anthony’s free agency choice at the end of the season.
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