New York Knicks: Top 5 options to replace Phil Jackson

May 23, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors general manager Masai Ujiri (right) gestures as he speaks with media during pre-game shoot around before the Raptors host Cleveland Cavaliers in game four of the Eastern conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

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Honorable Mention: Joe Dumars

Joe Dumars may have experienced an unceremonious end to his career as president of basketball operations for the Detroit Pistons, but don’t let that speak to his ability. For quite some time, Dumars was one of the top executives in the NBA.

With an abundance of postseason success and an ability to hold others accountable, Dumars could help restore the New York Knicks to greatness.

Dumars held the position of president of basketball operations between 2000 and 2014—an exceptionally long run. In 2003, he was named Executive of the Year for taking disregarded players and building a contender with them.

That season was the start of the run that far exceeds the success experienced by any Knicks team in almost 20 years.

Between 2003 and 2008, the Pistons made six consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances. Detroit won the NBA championship in 2004, made another NBA Finals appearance in 2005, and survived the departure of defensive anchor Ben Wallace.

If the Knicks were to experience a six-year run that even comes close to rivaling that success, fans would call for a statue to be made in Dumars’ honor.

For what it’s worth: Dumars’ past teams would perfectly fit Jeff Hornacek’s style of coaching.

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