Phil Jackson admits his first-year tenure with the New York Knicks has been a real struggle. Right now the team holds a strong grip on the worst record in the league and is merely trying to keep their heads above water before the season ends. However, Jackson has a chance to redeem himself this upcoming offseason as the Knicks have money to spend and big-time players in mind. The key will be to win over certain players before the respective teams get deals done which could be difficult.
The point guard position is a priority for New York. With Jose Calderon likely out at the end of the year, the Knicks need someone to run point with Carmelo Anthony. Reggie Jackson has been a favored name tossed around. New York tried to acquire the point guard at the trade deadline, but the Detroit Pistons won that battle and they might win the free agency race as well.
According to MLive.com, Jackson likes the idea of staying in Detroit and is excited about the future of the franchise. He recently praised his teamwork with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and does not sound ready to leave. The Pistons have already made it clear they would like to keep Jackson around and the feeling is mutual.
"We want to be one of the best backcourts in the league," Jackson said, via MLive.com. "We know we've got a long way to go. But we are young and we've got a chance to do so."
If Jackson is not available, the Knicks could eye a trade for Brandon Jennings who has been out with an injury. If the Pistons re-sign Jackson, there is a good chance Jennings hops onto the trade blocks. The question is whether or not the Knicks would prefer to deal or sign someone. New York continues to get linked to both Rajon Rondo and Goran Dragic along with every other team in the league needing a point guard. The Dallas Mavericks and Miami Heat will negotiate first with their players which might mean New York misses out.
If Rondo, Dragic and Jackson are out of the picture, New York could be in trouble. A deal for Jennings could be an option by offering Calderon. The Knicks will have to place faith in players like Langston Galloway to keep up momentum.
