Phil Jackson struggling to stay quiet during New York Knicks practices

Phil Jackson, president of basketball operations for the New York Knicks, is observing the practices being run by new coach Derek Fisher and staying quiet–even if it isn’t easy.

So it appears New York Knicks coach Derek Fisher is being given the leeway to be his own guy, even if it is driving president of basketball operations Phil Jackson insane in the process.

More from NBA

Jackson told the New York Post that he’s struggling at times to resist the urge to interrupt Fisher as the first-year coach conducts practices at training camp.

"“Sitting there a couple of hours, you attentively stay in tune with what’s going on out there. But there are times you want to get up and want to say something and you resist. Let them feel their way out there.”"

So did he fight the feeling?

"“I didn’t fight it. At times I actually got up. I just got up and walked it out [without talking].”"

Fisher has been fighting the perception that Jackson would be the de facto coach of the Knicks. After all, Fisher was playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder at this time a year ago and has a long relationship with Jackson that dates back to their five championships together when Jackson was coach and Fisher a point guard with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Jackson wouldn’t address the topic of how important it is for Fisher to be seen as his own guy.

"“Not going to discuss that. It’s not worth talking about it.”"

Fisher not only has his own former coach in the front office, but two of Jackson’s long-time assistant coaches—Kurt Rambis and Jim Cleamons — are on Fisher’s staff.

But Fisher wants Jackson around, just the same, even as he recognizes the need to establish boundaries between executive and coach.

"“It helps all of us. Coaches, players, staff is positively impacted whenever there’s great leadership around. Whether offering advice or not, when you’re around great leaders, great people, it’s a positive thing. I think we’ve all benefited.”"

We’ll see how quiet Jackson stays if the Knicks fall into a losing streak of say, one game or so.

Phil Jackson, president of basketball operations for the New York Knicks, is observing the practices being run by new coach Derek Fisher and staying quiet–even if it isn’t easy.

More from FanSided