The Los Angeles Lakers decision to hire coach Mike D'Antoni surprised many, but no one more than the "Zen Master" Phil Jackson.
According to ESPN, Jackson was reportedly "stunned" at the Lakers decision.
Jackson was prepared to accept the job Monday if negotiations between his agent and the Lakers went well. Though salary was never discussed, Jackson was demanding final say on all basketball decisions and be allowed special traveling arrangements, should he travel, during road games.
According sources the decision to hire D'Antoni and not Jackson came down to "Phil would come back only to win and skipping games doesn't lead to winning," the source said.
The Lakers Steve Nash and Kobe Bryant expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of playing for D'Antoni, although Bryant eagerly campaigned for a third stint for Jackson on the Lakers' bench.
"Obviously I think everyone knows how much I love Mike," Nash said Sunday night prior to the hiring. "If (D'Antoni) were to coach, it would be seamless and terrific for me, and I think the team as well."
Bryant added, "I love PJ but I'm very excited about D'Antoni."
D'Antoni is expected to arrive in L.A. on Wednesday at the earliest and Thursday at the latest. It's doubtful, though possible, he coaches Friday's game.
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