Phil Jackson showing interest in a non coaching job at the Portland Trail Blazers - NBA Report
Hall of Famer Phil Jackson, the former Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers coach, is musing upon the possibility of returning to the mainstream. But this time he is not eyeing a coaching position, rather a mentoring job at the Portland Trail Blazers.
Oregon recently reported that Phil has agreed to sign a deal with the Trail Blazers in the capacity of an advisor.
“Phil would be interested in talking about a possible role in the organization. My sense is there is a lot Phil can offer by being there; be it handling players, advising trade scenarios, managing coaching staff ... I think he would be a tremendous adviser to the owner.”
Jackson, the only coach with 11 championship rings, parted ways with the Los Angeles Lakers last off season, after the Hollywood franchise got swept by the eventual NBA champions Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the playoffs. His name has since been linked with every major franchise looking for a coach or a general manager.
His name first appeared when the New York Knicks parted ways with their head coach Mike D’ Antoni midway through the last season. There were very strong rumours that Phil could come in to steady the franchise, but it was interim coach Mike Woodson, who eventually got the nod. Phil later denied any contact with the Knicks front office.
Almost a month ago, Jackson was associated with Orlando Magic. Magic reached Phil with an offer to take over their front office, but the deal didn’t materialize because Jackson wanted to work from Los Angeles.
However this time, it seems that he will sign a deal with Portland. Although Blazers owner Paul Allen hasn’t commented on the situation so far, but it is expected that the two will be meeting any time this month.
Given his stature and experience, Portland can use him on scouting and players development end, especially when they are looking to rebuild the franchise. In the report, Oregon added;
“We told them he didn’t want to be head coach, but that we had interest in Phil speaking with Paul. Is that door still open? That’s up to Paul Allen. But Phil is open to a conversation”.
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