New York Knicks: Scott Perry taking a hands-on approach

New York Knicks general manager Scott Perry is taking a hands-on approach to his leadership role. He plans to attend New York’s road games.

The New York Knicks have entrusted the future of the organization to a number of high-profile figures. From Phil Jackson to Isiah Thomas, the Knicks have often fallen in love with the idea that a legend of the sport could prosper in a role they’d yet to fill.

2017-18 will mark the beginning of a new era, however, as the Knicks have given the keys to the organization to a general manager with past front office experience.

One of the primary knocks against Jackson during his four-year tenure as team president was that he didn’t take enough of a hands-on approach. He built rosters with an intriguing amount of talent, and utilized his Zen Master tactics, but didn’t spend enough time around the players to make it stick.

According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, president Steve Mills, general manager Scott Perry, and assistant general manager Craig Robinson will take a new approach by attending the road game against Oklahoma City on Thursday, October 19.

This is consistent with Perry’s past statements that he wants to spend road trips with the team in order to better evaluate how the season is playing out.

Without spending too much time focusing on the past, this is a significantly different approach to a front office position than Jackson took.

Perry has only been in office for a matter of months, but he’s been an active member of the organization. He spoke directly to Carmelo Anthony during the offseason, has held multiple press conferences, and even wrote a blog about his vision for the team.

That open nature has appealed to fans and players alike, with Perry building upon his reputation as an individual who understands the value of strong relationships.

Whether it’s the media, the players, the coaching staff, or other front office executives, Perry is making a concerted effort to get everyone on the same page.

Moving forward, Perry will have limited cap space and all of his first-round draft picks. He also made it a point to acquire the Chicago Bulls’ second-round draft pick in the Carmelo Anthony trade that netted Enes Kanter and Doug McDermott.

Rather than watching from afar, Perry will evaluate how the current roster fits together in person—both at home and on the road.

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New York Knicks general manager Scott Perry will take a hands-on approach to his new job. That alone is reason to be encouraged.