NBA Rumors: Derek Fisher favorite to become New York Knicks head coach
By Bryan Rose
The New York Knicks are still in need of a head coach after they were spurned by Steve Kerr, who after reportedly being very close to signing, decided to remain on the West Coast and accept the Golden State Warriors vacancy.
More from NBA
- NBA insider: Cavaliers should consider trading Donovan Mitchell
- NBA rumors: Hawks trade candidate, Sixers miss out, Lakers almost lose Reaves
- NBA insider explains real reason the Grizzlies were done with Dillon Brooks
- Knicks projected lineup and rotations heading into 2023-24 season
- Rockets projected lineup and rotations heading into 2023-24 season
That has left team president Phil Jackson searching for a coach who he believes can run the triangle offense, but so far he hasn’t found much to his liking.
Despite that, it appears as if Jackson has his eyes on one person in-particular though he’s unable to make a move right now considering the man he’s interested in is currently playing in the NBA playoffs.
No, Jackson isn’t interested in a member of the Miami Heat, Indiana Pacers, San Antonio Spurs or Oklahoma City Thunder coaching staff. In fact, he’s interested in one of their players.
According to Fox Sports, Jackson wants Thunder point guard Derek Fisher to coach the Knicks and the veteran, who played under Jackson with the Los Angeles Lakers is the favorite for the job.
"Despite Derek Fisher still playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder as they try to make their way back to the NBA Finals, reports say the 18-year veteran is the “favorite to land the Knicks head coaching job at this point.”"
Despite playing the role of veteran leader on multiple high-quality teams, Fisher doesn’t have any professional coaching experience though neither did Kerr, who the Knicks pushed hard for.
Well versed in the triangle offense and a good public speaker (former head of the NBA’s Player Association), Fisher might be the best potential candidate left given Jackson’s requirements and demands.