NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 18: Phil Jackson answers questions during a press conference (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Predicting Phil Jackson’s moves as President of Basketball Operations if he was never fired by the New York Knicks.
Phil Jackson was hired by the New York Knicks back in March of 2014. The team had ousted former general manager Glen Grunwald before training camp in 2013, and Steve Mills assumed the role of interim President of Basketball Operations.
The Knicks prepped to have cap space in the offseason of 2015. They believed that bringing in the great Phil Jackson, who won eleven titles as head coach of the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers, was a transition into building a championship culture around Carmelo Anthony, an impending free agent.
Phil Jackson fired head coach Mike Woodson, traded Tyson Chandler and Raymond Felton to the Mavericks, and hired Derek Fisher as head coach. He also enticed Carmelo Anthony into re-signing with the club on a five-year, $120 million deal with a no-trade clause.
Jackson’s first season with the team was disastrous. The Knicks finished the season 17-65, second-worst in the league, and they blew up the entire roster, outside of Carmelo. Phil drafted Kristaps Porzingis with the fourth overall pick in the 2015 draft, and the team improved but finished a disappointing 32-50.
Jackson felt the pressure of winning now and traded for former MVP Derrick Rose, while adding Joakim Noah, Courtney Lee, and Brandon Jennings in free agency. That season would be Phil’s last with the Knicks, and his relationship with Carmelo Anthony deteriorated to an inauspicious level. The Knicks finished the season 31-51, and the team knew that either Phil, Melo, or both were gone.
Kristaps Porzingis became fed up with the Knicks’ losing and Phil Jackson’s management of the team leading him to skip the team’s exit meeting in protest. The Knicks began to shop the disgruntled Porzingis to the dismay of Knicks fans.
Phil’s public feud with Carmelo Anthony reached a level where Jackson asked owner James Dolan to buy-out the remaining $54 million on Anthony’s contract. That was the last straw for Dolan, and he fired Phil Jackson with two years left on his contract.
Now that we’ve reminded you of the glorious tenure with Phil Jackson calling the shots at Madison Square Garden, in this article, we imagine the moves he would have made if he were never fired from the New York Knicks.
public feud</a> with Carmelo Anthony reached a level where Jackson asked owner James Dolan to buy-out the remaining $54 million on Anthony’s contract. That was the last straw for Dolan, and he fired Phil Jackson with two years left on his contract.</p>
<p>Now that we’ve reminded you of the glorious tenure with Phil Jackson calling the shots at Madison Square Garden, in this article, we imagine the moves he would have made if he were never fired from the New York Knicks.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 1) A major trade </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-94755 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1067,w_1600/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F07%2F896852392.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="1600" height="1067" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/07/896852392.jpeg 1600w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/07/896852392-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 21: Terry Rozier #12 of the Boston Celtics works against Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>If Phil Jackson was never fired: A major trade</h2>
<p><strong>Knicks trade Kristaps Porzingis to the Boston Celtics </strong></p>
<p>Phil Jackson was still the Knicks’ President at the 2017 NBA Draft, but his plans were handicapped. He did not care about the Knicks’ young star and the media hype around him. He felt disrespected by Porzingis skipping his exit meeting, and he immediately hit the trading lines, entertaining offers for the young star.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here are Phil's full comments regarding the Porzingis trade rumors. Doesn't sound too good. <a href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://t.co/aEVIlT0vtB">pic.twitter.com/aEVIlT0vtB
<p>— Kenny Ducey (@KennyDucey) <a href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://twitter.com/KennyDucey/status/877702259697754113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%22>June 22, 2017</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p></div>
<p>In an interview with MSG Networks prior to the draft, Jackson admitted that he had thought about trading the young star.</p>
<blockquote><p>“So we’ve been getting calls, and we’re listening, but we’re not intrigued yet at this level. But as much as we love this guy, we have to do what’s good for our club.”</p></blockquote>
<p>Although trade talks did not advance very far, owner James Dolan was adamant about the Knicks not trading the face of the franchise.</p>
<p>Trading Porzingis was at the foremost of reasons the Knicks ended up firing Jackson. However, if Dolan had trusted Jackson blindly, it was likely that the Knicks would have moved on from Porzingis before the 2017 draft, viewing the relationship unsalvageable.</p>
<p>Phil Jackson liked point guard <a href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2726995-kristaps-porzingis-trade-for-lonzo-ball-reportedly-wanted-by-phil-jackson">Lonzo Ball</a> and small forward <a href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://twitter.com/ramonashelburne/status/877196067237797888?s=20%22>Josh Jackson</a>, who were projected to land in the top four. The only way the Knicks could pick that high was through a trade sending Porzingis to Boston or Phoenix, who held the 3rd and 4th picks, respectively.</p>
<p>Kristaps Porzingis’ trade value was at an all-time high. He was a 21-year-old burgeoning star, who had flashed the ability to be an elite scorer and rim protector. Executives around the league were salivating over the 7’3 Latvian.</p>
<p>One team that had high-interest in trading for Porzingis was the Knicks’ rivals in Boston. GM Danny Ainge was a big fan of the future All-Star and offered the Knicks a deal centered around the 3rd pick in the draft, which they had traded down to get fromPhiladelphia.</p>
<p>According to Ian Begley, <a href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://twitter.com/IanBegley/status/877959174537101312" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Celtics offered the 3rd pick, an unnamed player, and a future lottery pick</a>. Among the players discussed in the deal were Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown.</p>
<p>Executives around the league came away with the impression that Phil Jackson’s asking price was extremely high. For this article’s purposes, we assume that Jackson could have traded Porzingis to Boston for the 3rd pick, Jaylen Brown, and the Sacramento Kings’ 2019 first-round pick.</p>
<p><strong>Alternate universe: </strong>Knicks fans are enraged, but Phil Jackson is excited about acquiring the 3rd pick and Jaylen Brown, who was the third pick of the 2016 NBA Draft. Brown averaged 6.6 points and 17.2 minutes in his rookie season, but he flashed the potential to be an intriguing two-way player. Boston gets a franchise star who will help them in the short and long-term, while the Knicks get an opportunity to build around Brown and their two lottery picks.</p>
<p>After 2017 free agency, Phil Jackson will hibernate in his Montana ranch and write a memoir about Kristaps Porzingis. How dare a 21-year-old Latvian brat disrespect the Zen Master!</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 2) The 2017 Draft </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110447 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2134,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F699981618.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="3200" height="2134" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/699981618.jpeg 3200w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/699981618-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 22: Josh Jackson walks on stage with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted fourth overall by the Phoenix Suns (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>If Phil Jackson was never fired: 2017 NBA DRAFT</h2>
<p><strong>Knicks select Josh Jackson with the 3rd pick </strong></p>
<p>Following our alternate universe where the Knicks secure the third overall pick from the Porzingis trade, the Knicks select Josh Jackson. As much as I wanted to justify Jayson Tatum here, Phil Jackson was a big fan of the Kansas forward. In fact, Jackson was one of the reasons Phil even entertained a Porzingis trade in the first place. Although De’Aaron Fox and Jayson Tatum are on the board, Jackson is widely regarded as the third-best player in the draft, and the consensus pick at number three.</p>
<p>Phil Jackson is thrilled to have two versatile two-way wings in Jaylen Brown and Josh Jackson. Brown-Jackson is his rendition of Michael Jordan-Scottie Pippen. I’m sorry that went way too far. Kobe Bryant and Ron Artest? Ok, I’ll stop.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks select Frank Ntilikina with the 8th pick </strong></p>
<p>Phil Jackson is cursing his former player John Paxson, now the GM of the Bulls, for trading Jimmy Butler to Minnesota and acquiring the 7th pick in the draft. Jackson had his eyes set on selecting Arizona big man <a href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://sports.yahoo.com/sources-phil-jackson-weighing-possibility-trading-kristaps-porzingis-155029676.html">Lauri Markkanen</a> to replace Porzingis, but the Bulls take him with the 7th pick they acquired from good ole Tom Thibodeau.</p>
<p>Phil is enraged, and he takes Frank Ntilikina with the eighth pick, given his fit in the triangle offense and his tantalizing potential on defense. Phil Jackson forgets that the NBA has evolved from the 1990’s style of play but is sold on a trio of Frank Ntilikina-Jaylen Brown-Josh Jackson, three versatile defenders who cannot shoot much.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks select Damyean Dotson with the 44th pick </strong></p>
<p>Although scarce on young big men, Phil does not select a big as the options at 44 are not great. Instead he chooses Damyean Dotson in the second round, realizing that his draft lacks any shooting whatsoever. Dotson and Dillion Brooks (pick 45) had identical shooting splits in college, so we assume the Knicks stick with Dotson over Brooks.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks select Jaron Blossomgame with the 58th pick </strong></p>
<p>New York finally goes with a big man, selecting Clemson’s Jaron Blossomgame with the 58th pick. His explosive athleticism, toughness, and defensive potential intrigue Jackson, who recognizes that the team lacks athleticism in the frontcourt. Jaron will likely spend most of his time down in Westchester, but he may have a future with the right development.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 3) 2017 Free Agency </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110346 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1095,w_1600/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F661967898.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="1600" height="1095" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/661967898.jpeg 1600w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/661967898-768x526.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">BROOKLYN, NY – MARCH 12: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Carmelo Anthony #7 of the New York Knicks (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3>If Phil Jackson was never fired: 2017 Free Agency</h3>
<p><strong>Knicks Buyout Carmelo Anthony</strong></p>
<p>The Knicks had very little interest in buying out Carmelo Anthony back in 2017, even though Anthony’s management tried to engage them in discussions. That situation escalated when Phil Jackson asked James Dolan to buy out the $54 million owed on Carmelo’s contract, which contributed to his eventual firing. However, if James Dolan listened to Jackson, the Knicks would have bout out the star forward’s deal and freed up about $26 million in cap room. It would have been an arduous financial burden on Mr. Dolan, but let’s imagine if the Zen Master got his way (Jim Buss learned the hard way).</p>
<p>Before all the moves, the Knicks were projected to have $18.5 million in cap room, if they renounced Derrick Rose and Justin Holiday’s cap holds and declined Marshall Plumlee and Chasson Randle’s deals. Factoring in the Kristaps Porzingis trade and Anthony’s buyout, the Knicks would be projected to have $39.2 million in cap room for the 2017 offseason.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks sign George Hill</strong></p>
<p>The New York Knicks are clearly rebuilding ahead of the 2017-18 NBA season, and cap space is of the least importance. Understanding that Frank Ntilikina is a project and should start the season on the bench, in this alternate universe, Phil Jackson signs George Hill to a three year, $57 million deal, with a partial guarantee on the third year (same contract he signed with Sacramento).</p>
<p>The Knicks get a veteran mentor for the young Ntilikina in George Hill, who still has a lot left in the tank at 31-years-old. Coming off a season where he averaged 17 points per game, Hill will be a valuable scorer and facilitator next to Jaylen Brown and Josh Jackson. Hill also has a career three-point percentage of 38% and shot 40% in his last two years. He gives the Knicks spacing and is a good fit in the triangle offense.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks sign Ersan Ilyasova </strong></p>
<p>To address the lack of shooting on the team, the Knicks sign Ersan Ilyasova to a one year, $8 million deal. Ersan averaged 13.1 points and 5.9 rebounds the season prior with the Sixers, Thunder, and Hawks. He accepts a one year “prove it” deal and will battle Lance Thomas for the starting power forward job. Much like Hill, Ersan’s value to the Knicks comes as a seasoned veteran and a valuable three-point shooter.</p>
<p><strong>Minor Moves </strong></p>
<p>The Knicks pick up Ron Baker’s $1.5 million team option. They also bring back Sasha Vujacic on the minimum to reinforce the triangle. They also sign Chasson Randle and Luke Kornet to two-way contracts.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks Depth Chart </strong>(*<em>Denotes Two-Way Contract</em>)</p>
<p><strong>PG</strong>: George Hill, Frank Ntilikina, Ron Baker, Chasson Randle*</p>
<p><strong>SG</strong>: Jaylen Brown, Courtney Lee, Damyean Dotson, Sasha Vujacic</p>
<p><strong>SF</strong>: Josh Jackson, Mindaugas Kuzminskas</p>
<p><strong>PF</strong>: Ersan Ilyasova, Lance Thomas, Jaron Blossomgame, Luke Kornet*</p>
<p><strong>C</strong>: Kyle O’Quinn, Willy Hernangomez, Joakim Noah</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 4) The 2017-18 Season </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110450 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2130,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F925511728.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="3200" height="2130" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/925511728.jpeg 3200w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/925511728-768x511.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">CLEVELAND, OH – FEBRUARY 22: George Hill #3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3>If Phil Jackson was never fired: 2017-18 Season</h3>
<p>In real life, the Knicks finished the 2017-18 season with a 29-53 record, starting the year off 17-13. The Knicks were carried by Kristaps Porzingis, who had played like an MVP for the first 30 games of the schedule, and Tim Hardaway Jr, Steve Mills’ big signing in the previous offseason. They also had a record of 23-33 at the 2018 NBA trade deadline and traded Willy Hernangomez to Charlotte for two-second rounders.</p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia">
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<p>However, without those two leading the way under this alternate world with Phil Jackson still calling the shots, the Knicks enter the 2018 NBA trade deadline with a record of 14-42. Jackson knew this season was a throw-away and that the Knicks would be tanking for the first pick, positioning themselves for Luka Doncic or Deandre Ayton. Knowing that they needed to lose as many games as possible, Jackson entertains trade offers for George Hill.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks trade George Hill to Cleveland</strong></p>
<p>LeBron’s Cavaliers are a mess at 31-22, and Cavaliers GM Koby Altman begins blowing up the roster to surround LeBron with better talent. The Cavaliers want an established, veteran point guard to lead the team in their championship quest, so they call the Knicks about George Hill, who is averaging 14 points and four assists in 29 minutes per night.</p>
<p>Jackson still has beef with Lebron James and is hesitant to help out his foe, but he eventually agrees to a deal, sending George Hill to Cleveland for Iman Shumpert, Channing Frye, and a 2020 second-round pick.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks buyout Channing Frye and Iman Shumpert undergoes knee surgery </strong></p>
<p>Channing Frye and Iman Shumpert are not thrilled to be back with the Knicks, neither is Phil Jackson. After being painted as the enemy by Lebron James, Jackson has two players who do not want to play for the team. Channing Frye, who is an expiring contract, agrees to a buyout before he puts on a Knicks uniform. Iman Shumpert shows a good face but does not play a game for the Knicks that season, opting for season-ending knee surgery.</p>
<p>The Knicks are content with the trade and end the season 5-21, finishing the season with a 19-63 record, the worst in the league. Jaylen Brown thrives from being the first option in New York and averages 18.3 points and 5.9 rebounds on 43.7% shooting in his sophomore season. Josh Jackson benefits from being the starting small forward all season and averages 15.7 points and 5.3 rebounds on 41.2% shooting from the field, earning All-Rookie second-team honors. Frank Ntilikina averages 7.1 points and 4.3 assists, while Willy Hernangomez regresses, averaging 6.3 points and 5.2 rebounds in 14 minutes a night.</p>
<p>The Knicks’ lack of talent was clearly evident this season, but their core pieces showed the potential to be solid NBA players, not a total waste.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 5) Time for a new coach </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110452 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2114,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F950968166.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="3200" height="2114" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/950968166.jpeg 3200w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/950968166-768x507.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">OAKLAND, CA – APRIL 24: San Antonio assistant coach Ettore Messina (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>If Phil Jackson was never fired: Time for a new coach</h2>
<p><strong>Knicks fire head coach Jeff Hornacek</strong></p>
<p>It was bound to happen, and Jeff Hornacek’s leash was already thin this season for his inability to coach the triangle. After a disappointing 31-51 season, the Knicks were even more awful in Hornacek’s second season, mostly by design. In this alternate universe, Hornacek is frustrated and expresses a desire to run an up-tempo style of play, clashing with Phil’s dedication to the triangle offense. He storms into his exit meeting with Jackson, berating the triangle offense and its place in today’s NBA.</p>
<p>Phil is baffled and fires Jeff Hornacek on the spot: <em>“How dare you question the triangle. There is a reason I beat you two times in the finals, Jeff. The triangle has won me eleven rings, and up-tempo has won you nothing. Get out of my office.”</em></p>
<p>This quote will also be present in Phil Jackson’s book about the Knicks.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks hire Ettore Messina as head coach</strong></p>
<p>Jackson is embarking on his third head coaching search in four seasons with the Knicks, and he realizes that the triangle is the foremost reason he cannot find a committed head coach. He settles on finding a coach who can most resemble the style of play he preaches: passing and spacing. He looks to Gregg Popovich’s staff for candidates, as the Spurs utilize the triangle and mirror the style of play he has won championships with.</p>
<p>He interviews Popovich’s lead assistant and decorated Euroleague coach, Ettore Messina, and is blown away by his knowledge of the game. Ettore’s philosophy is similar to Jackson and Popovich’s, as he preaches a half-court brand of basketball predicated on movement and shooting. Phil Jackson trusts that Messina will utilize the triangle in his gameplan, unlike Derek Fisher and Jeff Hornacek.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks get the first overall pick in the 2018 draft </strong></p>
<p>The Knicks finished the 2017-18 NBA season with a league-worst 19-63 record, two games worse than the Phoenix Suns at 21-61. They enter the 2018 NBA lottery with the greatest odds for the first pick in the draft at 25%. In real life, the Suns had the best odds and got the first pick in the draft. Under Phil Jackson, the Knicks win the lottery and are pegged with the great debate: Luka Doncic or Deandre Ayton.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 6) The 2018 NBA Draft </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110453 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2257,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F980759738.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="3200" height="2257" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/980759738.jpeg 3200w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/980759738-768x542.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 21: Luka Doncic poses with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted third overall by the Atlanta Hawks (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>If Phil Jackson was never fired: 2018 NBA Draft</h2>
<p><strong>Knicks select Luka Doncic with the 1st pick</strong></p>
<p>Wow, maybe Phil Jackson had a plan when he wanted to throw away the 2017-18 season by trading Kristaps Porzingis and buying out Carmelo Anthony. On paper, the Knicks need a big man, and Deandre Ayton looks like the next David Robinson. He is a physical brute, and the Knicks lack frontcourt talent outside of Willy Hernangomez, who is a weak defender. The Knicks also selected guard Frank Ntilikina in last year’s draft.</p>
<p>However, Phil Jackson is aware of how unique of a talent Luka Doncic is. Clarence Gaines, Phil Jackson’s international scout, had a significant say in the organization’s draft picks during the Jackson regime. He was instrumental in the Knicks selecting Kristaps Porzingis and Frank Ntilikina, proving that Phil Jackson trusts his word.</p>
<p>Anyone who had spent extensive time scouting Luka Doncic knew how special he was. European scouts hailed him as the greatest European prospect of all time, and Gaines, who spent a lot of time around European basketball, would have come to that conclusion about Doncic as well. His fit in the triangle as a lights-out shooter and passing maestro, and head coach Ettore Messina is very high on Doncic. The stars have aligned for Phil Jackson, who has found his franchise player who will make the triangle work for the Knicks after all.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks select Jarred Vanderbilt with the 31st pick</strong></p>
<p>After being the story of the first round by selecting Luka Doncic over Deandre Ayton, the Knicks have the 1st pick in the second round. With the roster looking guard-heavy, Phil Jackson chooses Kentucky PF Jarred Vanderbilt. Once regarded as a lottery prospect, Vanderbilt slipped to the second round because of various injuries.</p>
<p>Phil sees Vanderbilt as an incredible value pick at 31. He is an ideal fit in the triangle offense for his ability to pass the ball off the low-block and key. Vanderbilt’s best strengths in high school were his ability to make plays in space and transition. He is a crafty finisher and an excellent rebounder for his size. Phil sees many Lamar Odom qualities in Vanderbilt’s game and is ecstatic to take him in the second round.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 7) 2018 Free Agency </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110454 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1067,w_1600/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F660931756.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="1600" height="1067" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/660931756.jpeg 1600w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/660931756-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">NEW ORLEANS, LA – MARCH 29: Nerlens Noel #3 of the Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>If Phil Jackson was never fired: 2018 Free Agency</h2>
<p><strong>Iman Shumpert opts into Player Option</strong></p>
<p>Despite his disdain for Phil Jackson, Iman Shumpert hashes things out with the team president who traded him in 2014. Iman exercises his $11 million player option for the 2018-19 season.</p>
<p>As a result, the Knicks enter 2018 NBA free agency with $25.3 million in cap room. Their primary motive will be to surround Doncic with talent and preserve cap flexibility for the 2019 offseason when Lance Thomas and Iman Shumpert’s deals expire.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks sign Nerlens Noel</strong></p>
<p>The Knicks desperately need rim protection, and with the center market weak, they ink Nerlens Noel to a two year, $7 million deal. The former 6th overall pick only played 30 games last season for the Mavericks and did not have much of a market outside of the Knicks and Thunder. The Thunder offered Noel 2 years, $4 million, but Noel accepts the Knicks’ offer, including a player option for the 2nd year. Noel will likely earn the starting spot for his defense and is a good lob partner for Doncic, if healthy.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks sign Glenn Robinson III</strong></p>
<p>The Knicks sign Glenn Robinson III to a two year, $10 million deal, with a team option on the second year. Robinson provides some added wing depth behind Jaylen Brown and Josh Jackson. Robinson only played 23 games for the Pacers last season, but he gives the Knicks a versatile defender and an athletic wing at age 25.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks sign Ed Davis</strong></p>
<p>The Knicks sign big man Ed Davis to a one year, $6 million deal. With Noel’s health a question, and the youth of Jarred Vanderbilt, the Knicks sign the veteran big to play both center and power forward. Davis has a nose for the ball and provides experience to a young and inexperienced front court.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks sign Jarrett Jack</strong></p>
<p>Jarrett Jack spent the past season in the G League, hoping to get called up to an NBA squad. He had signed a few ten-day contracts but never stuck with an NBA team. Phil signs Jack as a second coach to provide Doncic advice about running an NBA team in his rookie season.</p>
<p><strong>Minor Moves </strong></p>
<p>Phil Jackson brings back Sasha Vujacic to another one-year, minimum deal to be a triangle teacher. The Knicks also bring back Luke Kornet on a two-way contract and demote Jaron Blossomgame to a two-way deal as well.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks use stretch provision on Joakim Noah</strong></p>
<p>Before the season starts, the Knicks use the stretch provision on Joakim Noah. He gets paid the $18 million on his third year, and the money on his fourth year is spread out through three years. After being suspended 20 games for PED use, Noah has fallen out of favor in New York’s front office.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks Depth Chart </strong>(*<em>Denotes Two-Way Contract</em>)</p>
<p><strong>PG</strong>: Luka Doncic, Frank Ntilikina, Jarrett Jack</p>
<p><strong>SG</strong>: Jaylen Brown, Courtney Lee, Damyean Dotson, Sasha Vujacic</p>
<p><strong>SF</strong>: Josh Jackson, Glenn Robinson III, Iman Shumpert</p>
<p><strong>PF</strong>: Lance Thomas, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaron Blossomgame*, Luke Kornet*</p>
<p><strong>C</strong>: Nerlens Noel, Willy Hernangomez, Ed Davis</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 8) The 2018-19 Season </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110455 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2078,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F1158107052.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="3200" height="2078" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/1158107052.jpeg 3200w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/1158107052-768x499.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">New York Knicks (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Turner Sports)</p>
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<h2>If Phil Jackson was never fired: 2018-19 NBA Season</h2>
<p>Continuing our alternate world with Phil Jackson still in charge of the Knicks, the 2018-19 NBA season is exciting, yet forgettable at the same time. The team has a very young roster led by three young players: Luka Doncic, Jaylen Brown, and Josh Jackson. The Knicks finished the season 28-54, but the franchise’s outlook looks extremely promising if they address the frontcourt.</p>
<p>Luka Doncic is now the NBA’s golden boy, playing in the world’s largest market at a very high level. The pressure of New York does not faze him, and he is proving that he is the future of the NBA, stacking up triple-doubles, saucing defenders, and shooting the lights out. He is a perfect fit in Ettore Messina’s slow-tempo offense and is undoubtedly the rookie of the year, averaging 21.6 points, 7.8 rebounds, and six assists per game.</p>
<p>Jaylen Brown took a step towards stardom and greatly benefited from playing next to Luka Doncic in the backcourt. His points per game increased slightly to 19.1 points per night, but his efficiency skyrocketed to 47%. Josh Jackson’s points dropped to 14.6 per night, but his efficiency improved, and he turned into a much better defender. Frank Ntilikina came off the bench and averaged 7.3 points and 4.4 assists, growing minimally but playing a vital role on the team’s second unit. Jarred Vanderbilt struggled to get a groove and battled injuries but looked promising in the minutes he played, averaging 5.6 points and 4.2 rebounds in 16 minutes.</p>
<p>Luka Doncic single-handedly saved Phil Jackson’s reputation in New York, and the outlook for the team is finally positive after five grim years. The media rejoices with boy sensation, Luka Doncic, and Knicks fans are ecstatic about their young core.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks extend Phil Jackson </strong></p>
<p>Phil Jackson was set to retire after the season as he entered the final year of his five year, $60 million deal. Jackson believed his legacy in New York was saved by selecting Luka Doncic in the draft and giving New York a legit franchise superstar to build around for the next few years. However, James Dolan was so thrilled with Phil’s selection of Doncic that he convinced him to stay another year and build a playoff team around the European star before he retires from the Knicks.</p>
<p><strong>Luka Doncic wins ROY</strong></p>
<p>To no one’s surprise, Luka Doncic wins Rookie of the Year. He had the best rookie season from an NBA player in recent years, and with Doncic lighting it up in New York City, he is undoubtedly the NBA’s rookie of the year.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 9) The 2019 NBA Draft </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110456 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2134,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F1157247037.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="3200" height="2134" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/1157247037.jpeg 3200w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/1157247037-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">NEw York Knicks (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>If Phil Jackson was never fired: 2019 NBA DRAFT</h2>
<p><strong>Knicks get the 8th overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft</strong></p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia">
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<p>With a record of 28-54 during their alternate universe 2018-19 season under Phil Jackson, the Knicks have the 5th best odds for the first pick in the 2019 NBA draft. The Dallas Mavericks, who finished 33-49 with Luka in real life, move up the lottery without him, pushing the Knicks down to the 5th worst record. The Hawks had the 5th best odds in real life, and after the lottery, they fell to pick number eight. As a result, the Knicks are picking number eight. They also have the Sacramento Kings’ pick at 14, acquired in the Kristaps Porzingis trade.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks select Jaxson Hayes with the 8th overall pick</strong></p>
<p>Jaxson Hayes, the athletic seven-footer from Texas, was selected by the New Orleans Pelicans at pick number eight in real life. With Phil Jackson and Luka Doncic in tow, the Knicks take the franchise rim protector at number eight to bolster their lackluster frontcourt. Although Jaxson projects as a long-term project rather than a short-term answer, he will play from day one as he fits well as a rim-rummer and alley-oop partner for Luka Doncic. The Knicks desperately need a strong interior presence, and Jaxson Hayes is the best big on the board.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks select Brandon Clarke with the 14th overall pick</strong></p>
<p>In real life, Brandon Clarke was selected with the 21st overall pick in the draft. However, he was projected to be a sure-fire lottery pick before the draft, raising questions over his slide down draft boards. These questions do not faze Phil Jackson as he needs to select a power forward given that Lance Thomas is a free agent, and Jarred Vanderbilt failed to establish himself as a keeper in his rookie season. Brandon Clarke is the best passing big man in the draft, and his athleticism fits well with the Knicks’ young core. The Knicks do not have to run plays for Clarke, and he will play his role as a defensive anchor and rim-running big.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks select Tremont Waters with the 48th pick</strong></p>
<p>Under Phil Jackson, the Knicks never make the Emmanuel Mudiay trade where they swap their rights to the Clippers’ second-round pick with the Denver Nuggets’ second-rounder. Instead of picking at number 55, Phil Jackson has the 48th pick and selects LSU guard Tremont Waters. He projects as the best scorer of the players available, and the Knicks snag him, hoping he develops into a spark plug for their weak bench.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> 10) 2019 Free Agency </a>
</div><!—pageview_candidate—></p><hr id="pagebreak"><div id="attachment_110457" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-110457 size-full" src=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1067,w_1600/https%3A%2F%2Fdailyknicks.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2020%2F07%2F1187944273.jpeg" alt="New York Knicks" width="1600" height="1067" srcset="https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/1187944273.jpeg 1600w, https://dailyknicks.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2020/07/1187944273-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NOVEMBER 14: Derrick Favors #22 of the New Orleans Pelicans (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>If Phil Jackson was never fired: 2019 Free Agency</h2>
<p>Our final “what if” looks at 2019 free agency with Phil Jackson still in charge of the Knicks.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks pick up Glenn Robinson III’s team option and waive Lance Thomas</strong></p>
<p>New York picks up Glenn Robinson’s $5 million team option as he played well for a rotation wing. Lance Thomas is waived to free up $7.6 million in cap room.</p>
<p><strong>Nerlens Noel declines $3.5 million player option</strong></p>
<p>Noel played well as the Knicks’ starting center and is looking for a big payday this offseason.</p>
<p>The Knicks enter the 2019 NBA free agency with $35.9 million in cap space.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks trade for Derrick Favors </strong></p>
<p>The Utah Jazz start free agency off with a bang and sign Bojan Bogdanovic to a four year, $73 million deal. However, they need to offload Derrick Favors’ $16.9 dollar partial guarantee to do so. Everyone knows that Phil Jackson is in the market for a veteran big man, so the Jazz call the Knicks, proposing a trade for Derrick Favors that would net the Jazz the Knicks’ 2022 second-rounder and the Cavs’ second-rounder in 2020. The Jazz clear the way to sign Bogdanovic, and Jackson gets a starting center that can protect the rim and grab rebounds. Willy Hernangomez’s future is in limbo now.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks sign JaMychal Green</strong></p>
<p>The Knicks sign JaMychal Green to a pricey two year, $18 million deal to pry him away from the Los Angeles Clippers. Phil Jackson likes Green’s ability to shoot the three, grab rebounds, and play defense on the low block. JaMychal Green gives the Knicks a rotational big to bolster the team’s weak unit.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks sign Alec Burks</strong></p>
<p>The Knicks sign Alec Burks to a one year, $5 million dollar deal to provide the team with a scoring punch and perimeter shooting. Courtney Lee seems like he is on his last legs, and Burks is a reliable replacement. He will be allowed to lead the second unit, something he needs as a high volume scorer.</p>
<p><strong>Minor Moves</strong></p>
<p>The Knicks re-sign Jarrett Jack to the minimum as he was a popular teammate last season and a strong leader. The Knicks sign Ivan Rabb and Tremont Waters to two-way contracts.</p>
<p><strong>Knicks Depth Chart</strong> (*<em>Denotes Two-Way Contract</em>)</p>
<p><strong>PG</strong>: Luka Doncic, Frank Ntilikina, Jarrett Jack, Tremont Waters*</p>
<p><strong>SG</strong>: Jaylen Brown, Alec Burks, Damyean Dotson, Courtney Lee</p>
<p><strong>SF</strong>: Josh Jackson, Glenn Robinson III</p>
<p><strong>PF</strong>: Brandon Clarke, JaMychal Green, Jarred Vanderbilt, Ivan Rabb*</p>
<p><strong>C</strong>: Derrick Favors, Jaxson Hayes, Willy Hernangomez</p>
<p>As Phil Jackson heads into his final season as President of Basketball Operations, he assembles a roster that is expected to compete for a low playoff seed in the weak Eastern Conference. The team’s future seems secure with Luka Doncic, and rising stars Jaylen Brown and Josh Jackson in tow. The team has cap flexibility for the next few offseasons, and Phil Jackson saves his failed Knicks legacy if James Dolan never fires him.</p>
<div class="fs-shortcode" data-type="StoryLink" data-theme="dark" data-text="Re-drafting New York's last 10 first round picks" data-url="https://dailyknicks.com/2020/06/27/knicks-draft-realistically-re-drafting-10-first-round-picks/" data-call-to-action="Next"> <div class="story-link-next"> <a class="story-link-next-btn" style="background: #007BC1" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="story-link-next-shortcode" href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://dailyknicks.com/2020/06/27/knicks-draft-realistically-re-drafting-10-first-round-picks/"> <span class="call_to_action">Next:</span> Re-drafting New York's last 10 first round picks </a> </div>
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<p>Nobody knows what Phil Jackson was thinking and if this was his plan all along. This article is my assessment of what moves he would make, albeit optimistically and with the benefit of time. Shout out to <a href=https://dailyknicks.com/2020/07/10/ny-knicks-phil-jackson-never-fired/"https://www.instagram.com/knicksfeed/">@Knicksfeed on Instagram for helping me brainstorm some of Phil Jackson’s moves.</p><!—pageview_candidate—>">