Despite the persistent rumors linking Phil Jackson to a Lakers return, his fiancée says it’s not on the table.
Lakers co-owner Jeanie Buss appeared on ESPN Radio Monday morning and was asked by Ramona Shelburne if there was a chance that the legendary former coach would ever return to Los Angeles in any role.
“No,” Buss said. “To visit, yes..but in terms of basketball, he’s committed to New York for many years. He’s building something there. He has a mission, he’s on that journey to get the team back to where he believes it can be and it will be. He’s a former Knick…he loves New York, he loves the fans, he wants to make them proud. In terms of the Lakers, we have a front office. They’re putting together a team…they have a vision. I’m excited to see what the future holds for us. So, to answer your question….no, there’s no plans for Phil to come back here.”
Buss has maintained this stance all along amidst reports that a return to the Lakers seemed “inevitable.” Jackson, though, has just hired a new coach who won’t be forced to run his famed triangle offense. He doesn’t look like a guy who has designs on leaving anytime soon.
