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New York Knicks: It’s Time For Phil Jackson To Shake Things Up

By Matthew Perez

Jan 7, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Knicks head coach Jeff Hornacek on the sideline reacting to a foul in the second half of the game against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Indiana Pacers beat the New York Knicks 123-109.Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 7, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Knicks head coach Jeff Hornacek on the sideline reacting to a foul in the second half of the game against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Indiana Pacers beat the New York Knicks 123-109.Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 9, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks general manager Phil Jackson watches during the third quarter between the New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks general manager Phil Jackson watches during the third quarter between the New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Phil Jackson Must Speak To The Media

Where is Phil Jackson?

It seemed like Jackson was very involved in the beginning of the season, partaking in interviews, and even showing up to Knicks practices.

In his interview with CBS sports, Jackson said, “We have a rule, if you hold the ball two seconds, you benefit the defense. Carmelo tends to hold the ball 3-4-5 seconds before making the pass.”

If you watched the New York Knicks this season, you know Jackson’s statement was accurate. Unfortunately, it seemed like this interview was the beginning of the collapse of the Knicks’ season.

Since his December 7 interview with CBS Sports, Jackson has disappeared.

The Knicks’ record at the time of interview? 11-9.

The Knicks’ record since the interview? 11-22.

Jackson has a responsibility to speak to the media and give an update on the situation.

This team has no stability, and everyone seems preoccupied with the outside trade rumors. The worst part of the Knicks’ season? The inconsistency. The constant state of limbo.

Since the trade rumors surfaced, the Knicks have been a collaborative train wreck. Will Anthony be traded? Will he waive his no-trade clause? Is Hornacek’s job safe? Who will Hornacek start today?

At the end of the day, players are paid to play basketball and not worry about the rumors. However, these guys are still human beings, and having your worth questioned in the media on a day-to-day basis is quite draining.

It’s time Jackson relieved some anxiety within the Knicks organization by speaking to his team and coaches. Although it may be unreported, when is the last time that Jackson and Hornacek spoke?

Thankfully, that day has finally come.

Hornacek’s opinion on the Anthony drama should be a determining factor to Jackson.

Hornacek coaches this team on a daily basis, and sees how these guys respond in practice. Are other players unhappy with Anthony? Do they feel involved on offense? The media can speculate all they want, but only the players and coaches know the real truth.

It’s safe to say that Hornacek is disgusted with his players after their loss last night, emphasizing the effort of the starting unit. 53 games into the season, effort should not be a problem.

With all that’s transpired in the past four-to-six weeks, Jackson owes the players, the coaches, and the media an explanation as to what exactly he plans to do with this team going forward.

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