The Thunder didn’t get out of the Western Conference, but they did get Knicks president Phil Jackson fined.
After Thunder officials filed a complaint with the league, the NBA fined Jackson, the Knicks president, $25,000 for tampering on Monday for comments he made about Derek Fisher, according to sources.
Things are expected to speed up this week, with Jackson and Fisher likely holding their first conversation. Fisher said after Oklahoma City’s elimination Saturday night he would need just a few days to collect his thoughts before deciding whether to consider coaching opportunities. Fisher added he realized the urgency of all the parties.
The Knicks are a lot more interested than the Lakers, who regard Fisher more as a fringe candidate as they continue to interview veteran coaches such as Lionel Hollins and Mike Dunleavy. Reportedly the Lakers want to speak to 10 candidates but Fisher would be the sentimental choice, possibly even for a front-office job.
Jackson will need permission from the Thunder to speak with Fisher about the coaching vacancy because the point guard remains under contract until June 30.
Sources said Thunder officials were ticked off Jackson referred to Fisher as being on his list of coaching candidates while speaking with the media last Friday while Fisher was still in the midst of the Western finals against the Spurs.
The Thunder, who were eliminated by the Spurs on Saturday, filed a complaint on Monday, perhaps feeling Jackson’s remarks created an unnecessary distraction.
That the Thunder were unhappy with Jackson’s remarks also could indicate the team would like Fisher to consider returning as a player/unofficial assistant coach.
Jackson, meanwhile, is desperate after seeing his verbal agreement with Steve Kerr blow up.
“I kind of know what he wants to do and his feelings,” Jackson said of Fisher on Friday. “He’s got a family in L.A. He’s got little kids in L.A. I have no idea if he wants to move his family and come here. There’s so many unknowns. He’s definitely a person on my list who could be a very good candidate for this job.”
Jackson has had his run-ins with the league while a coach, often critical of the officiating and other league issues. At his introductory press conference in March, Jackson said, “I’ll try to monitor my blabbermouth. My fiancée Jeanie Buss says it’s gotten me a number of fines from the league office. I certainly don’t want to get any more of those.’’
Fisher said Monday he believes coaching or being a team president is his “calling’’ because of his leadership skills. Fisher said Jackson’s presence adds “huge layers’’ to his decision.
On Monday, during his team’s breakup day, Thunder coach Scott Brooks said, “Fish and I have great relationship. I will be there for him whatever he needs. I’ll listen.’’
Then the under-fire Brooks quipped, “If he wants my advice I’ll definitely tell him to get into management.’’