The Knicks’ new rookie coach Derek Fisher welcomes Phil Jackson’s hands-on approach from the presidency seat, but only to a point.
Fisher admitted the duo has to find the right mix regarding Jackson’s involvement during practices and such. Jackson acknowledged during Tuesday’s press conference he will attend practices and will speak up to players when he sees something. After all, owner James Dolan isn’t paying Jackson $60 million to look good in a jacket and tie.
Ten days ago, Fisher was a reserve point guard for the Thunder in the Western Conference finals, so he can use the help from the Zen Master.
“I want Phil involved,’’ said Fisher, who won five titles with Jackson as his coach for the Lakers. “We’ll figure out the dynamic. We have a transition to make from being coach-player to executive-coach. That’s a different relationship. We have some learning to do from that respect.’’
Fisher went on to say, however, the players need to know who the coach is. Ironically, Jackson loathed input from the front office during his coaching days. In fact, he famously threw legendary Jerry West, then the Lakers general manager, out of his locker room after a game.
“I don’t actually see the problem of having one of the greatest ever do what you’re trying to do to want to come down and help you a little bit,’’ Fisher said. “I see that as a positive, something I’m open to. We’ll figure out how that works and plays out — the best way to do it so the players understand I’m the head coach. I don’t see it being an issue as potentially others may see it. I’m looking forward to that exchange.’’
Asked about his role now that protégé Fisher is in place, Jackson said, “We’ll figure that out as we go along, obviously. I see a role simply as a guy willing and ready to offer support. I’m willing and ready to step into practice sessions and talk about things you have to do on the basketball court.’’
In the past two weeks, the Knicks have conducted a handful of pre-draft workouts for college players and Jackson has helped.
“I’ve done the workouts,’’ Jackson said. “I realize it’s not my role to be on the court. It’s where a young man steps in and has the energy to lead. My job is to flesh out what I’ve accumulated over 30 years of coaching.’’
J.R. Smith always has impeccable timing on Twitter. On Fisher’s first official day as head coach, Smith sent a message, indicating he’s not willing to come off the bench this season.
When a follower told him he’s going to win another Sixth Man of the Year Award, the flaky Smith tweeted: “Nope! no more bench for me!!’’ Smith won Sixth Man of the Year in 2013, but when he moved to the starting lineup late last season he excelled after a slow start. Smith could be ticked at the firing of Mike Woodson, whom he adored.
Fisher said he hopes to hire his coaching staff soon and said it’s “no guarantee’’ he will have a former head coach on his staff.
Fisher, according to a source, is trying to hire Lakers assistant Kurt Rambis, and The Post reported the Knicks have gotten permission from LA to speak with him. The only caveat is Rambis could be included on the next Lakers’ staff, depending on whom they hire.
Other candidates include former Fisher teammates Luke Walton and Rick Fox, Bucks assistant Jim Cleamons, and Bill Cartwright. Knicks GM Steve Mills has spoken to Scottie Pippen at the Chicago pre-draft camp about potentially joining the staff. Fisher also will be asked to consider longtime Knicks assistant Herb Williams, who has head-coaching experience.
Following Jason Kidd’s lead last July, Fisher said he is strongly considering being the head coach during the Las Vegas Summer League.
“It’s definitely something I considered,’’ Fisher said. “It’s on my mind. I saw Jason do it last year. I thought it was smart thing to do. Not having head-coaching experience, it could be a great opportunity to learn things in the summer league. What the job requires during game management, timeouts, substitutions, little situations you’ll be in.’’