MJ insists Jackson’s management skills will ensure he is successful.
NBA legend Michael Jordan has revealed that he fully believes that former coach Phil Jackson has what it takes to make his front office role with the New York Knicks a success.
Jackson is expected to be officially unveiled to the media by the Knicks on Tuesday, where he will be appointed the new president of basketball operations at the organisation.
Given that this will be his first front office role, there are initial doubts over whether Jackson can have his desired influence on the franchise, while critics will suggest that owner James Dolan will not give him the autonomy to sort out the current issues.
Nevertheless, Jordan insists that from past experiences with Jackson, he has all the attributes to make his new role a success and his arrival will be a significant boost for the Knicks.
“Phil can do some good things with them because he’s gifted,” Jordan told ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith on Monday.
“Phil is fantastic at managing egos and personalities, getting everyone on the same page and maxing out whatever potential is there for what should be the common and ultimate goal.
“Just because he’s never been an executive before doesn’t mean he can’t do that. He’s wanted to do it for a while now, and I know he can do it … so long as he has the necessary pieces in place.”
Jordan, the chairman of the Charlotte Bobcats, said that he believes Jackson will learn the inner workings of his new role quickly, which will put him in a good position this summer and moving forward for the long-term future of the franchise.
The former Bulls star won six NBA championships with Jackson as his coach, and while he has wished him the best of luck with his new job, he insists that like the other owners around the league he will not be doing him any favours when it comes to picks or trades.
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