Wilkens Death Watch Begins : Isiah Flirts With Phil



The New York Daily News' Frank Isola reports that Knicks GM Isiah Thomas is openly lusting after Phil Jackson, despite having Hall of Famer Lenny Wilkens firmly in his employ.

Isiah Thomas called Phil Jackson an "attractive candidate" last night before quickly reminding reporters that the Knicks' head coaching job is currently filled.

Somehow, that probably doesn't make Lenny Wilkens feel too good. Or safe.

While Jackson has made the rounds this week in New York promoting his newly released book, he's made it known that he is a disciple of Red Holzman and that coaching the Knicks appeals to him. When asked about what could be construed as Jackson openly campaigning for Wilkens' job, Thomas didn't exactly put an end to the speculation that Jackson's next stop is Madison Square Garden.

"I think we're all big boys," Thomas, the Knicks' president, said before his team beat the Jazz, 89-83, at the Garden in the preseason finale for both. "We all have a healthy respect for one another. I have great respect for Lenny and who he is and what he's done, and his place in the game.

"I also have great respect for Phil in terms of who he is and what he's done and his place in the game. We're fortunate enough to have, I think, the coach right now that is right for us. You know, Phil is out there. He's an attractive candidate but there is no job opening here."

Thomas seemed almost flattered that Jackson, a former Knick who won nine NBA championships as a head coach, would express so much interest in the Knicks. Thomas feels that Jackson's public comments are yet another example that the organization, which has not won a playoff series since 2000, is about to experience a resurgence.

"I think it's great that the best players and some of the best coaches want to come here," Thomas added. "I think that says a lot about us as an organization. We have a Hall of Fame coach who is here now. I guess from what I've heard and read there is another Hall of Fame coach who likes the direction we're going. That's positive in my point of view."

Posted: Fri - October 29, 2004 at 01:17 PM      

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