The whole “Phil Jackson might consider coaching the New York Knicks for at least half the time next season” thing didn’t last very long.
It’s not going to happen, according to Jackson confidant Charlie Rosen, as told to the New York Post‘s Marc Berman:
f you’re still holding out a shred of hope Phil Jackson will run the Knicks bench at the Garden next season in light of recent rumors, stop.
Charley Rosen, Jackson’s confidant, met with the Zen Master before Sunday’s loss to Sacramento, and told The Post there is “zero percent” chance that proposed home-and-away scenario occurs next season.
“Phil said it’s absolutely not true — there’s no chance he’s going to coach,’’ Rosen told The Post. “It’s total fantasy — an old rumor.’’
The initial report came from ESPN.com’s Ramona Shelburne, a respected and credible reporter, so the idea that she rehashed an “old rumor” is a bit extreme. But the foundation Rosen is laying makes sense.
Jackson is 70 years old and has nothing to gain from taking over a non-playoff team. He can only harm his legacy by taking to the sidelines. Assuming control of the Knicks, as team president, was a risk in itself. Most will overlook his faults and follies and foibles as an executive when it comes time to talk about the mystique he leaves behind; the general public will not, however, let a failed stint as a head coach slide.
Now the question becomes: If Jackson won’t be splitting coaching duties for the Knicks, whom will he hire?
This next hire will shape how his tenure in New York is remembered. Because, after two years at the helm, we’re all still wondering whether he’s so married to the triangle that he refuses to trying winning another way. And that’s a risky mindset, if not a destructive one. His next head coaching decision is a way for him to quell the mounting fear in the Big Apple or, more harrowingly, justify its existence.
