Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni, commenting on his lame-duck status, said if he wins, he will be back next season — end of story.
“Every coach wants to stay where he is,’’ D’Antoni said. “You get close to players. If things work out, it takes care of itself. Coaches are always on a one-year [deal]. I’ll be OK one way or another. But coaches are always year to year. You got to perform. The team has to perform. If it does, then all things work out.’’
There’s been speculation top assistant Mike Woodson was hired not just to aid the defense but to supplant D’Antoni next season. Phil Jackson could also be waiting in the wings.
Woodson has indeed walked around with the air of a head coach during practices, folding his arms, supervising each court as the other assistants do drillwork. During scrimmages, Woodson is the one instructing.
D’Antoni’s best attribute is players want to play for him because of his reputation as an offensive guru and likeable persona. Tyson Chandler admitted yesterday D’Antoni was a factor, since he played for him during Team USA basketball competitions.
“That was very beneficial,’’ Chandler said. “I had respect for him before I got here. I would’ve had respect for him anyway because of what he’s accomplished in his career. Knowing him on a personal level, it made it that much easier.’’
* Carmelo Anthony still was sore and did not practice yesterday as he rested a hyperextended left knee. No MRI tests are scheduled. Anthony expects to return today and be available for Saturday’s preseason opener in Newark.
“That’s one reason Melo didn’t play today, something happens, he doesn’t have a month to recover and be back for the season,’’ D’Antoni said.
* Rookie 7-foot center Jerome Jordan still hasn’t practiced as paperwork on his buyout and visa are being completed. Interim GM Glen Grunwald called him still more “a prospect’’ than ready for the rotation.
“We’ll evaluate him and see if we can get him up to where we think he can contribute,’’ D’Antoni said.