New York Knicks: Who Should Replace Derek Fisher?

January 25, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr (right) and assistant coach Luke Walton (left) during the fourth quarter against the San Antonio Spurs at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Spurs 120-90. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

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5. Mark Jackson

From 1987 to 1992 and 2000 to 2002, Mark Jackson ran point for the New York Knicks. He won the 1988 Rookie of the Year award and was an All-Star in 1989, which is a small reason why he’s being included on this shortlist of candidates.

Jackson may not be the most schematically prolific option available, but he’s experienced success a head coach in the past.

Jackson spent three years as the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, going 98-66 during his final two seasons. He took the Warriors to the Western Conference Semifinals in 2013, won 51 games in 2014, and remains one of the Association’s most sought after coaches.

The Warriors’ offensive execution was lackluster under Jackson, but its defense became borderline elite through his coaching and guidance.

The key for New York will be complementing Jackson with an assistant coach who can run the offense. That was done in 2013, when Michael Malone helped Golden State’s offense blossom in an overachieving season.

If New York wants to get back to its 1970s and 1990s style of play, placing an emphasis on defense above all else, Jackson is the man to trust.

Next: The Familiar Face

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