Phil Jackson and the New York Knicks are expected to "ramp up" their pursuit of Derek Fisher this week in hopes of making the veteran guard the first coaching hire of the new Knicks president of basketball operation's tenure.
An 18-year veteran, Fisher is thought to be willing to hang up his sneakers for the chance to become the coach of one of the league's most storied franchises. ESPN reports Fisher is by far the one candidate Jackson has most zoomed in on since being spurned by initial top-choice Steve Kerr.
Kerr took the same job in Golden State and after a rumored dalliance with the Lakers, whom he played several seasons for including a stint under Jackson, Fisher is now rumored to be all bit signed and delivered for the Knicks.
"Things could take shape quickly in the early part of the week," a source told ESPN. "Only Phil knows."
Phil Jackson to meet with Derek Fisher
The only roadblock for the Knicks appears to be making certain the 39-year-old Fisher has completely gotten the playing bug out of his system. Considered a natural leader and having once served as president of the NBA Players Association, Fisher has also won five NBA titles playing alongside Kobe Bryant over the course of his career.
Since taking over the Knicks, Jackson has shown an major preference for young coaches that are also steeped in the ways of his triangle offense. Like Fisher, Kerr spent several seasons playing under Jackson while the two were with the Bulls.
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