The Knicks are currently in negotiations with Kurt Rambis on a new contract that would give the former interim head coach a spot on Jeff Hornacek‘s staff in New York, reports Ian Begley of ESPN.com. The deal hasn’t been finalized yet, but it sounds as if both sides are comfortable moving forward with Rambis as a Knicks assistant.
Rambis, who was considered for the Knicks’ head coaching vacancy, ultimately lost out on the position to Hornacek, raising some doubts about his future with the franchise. However, sources tells Begley that Hornacek has signed off on making Rambis a part of his staff. Rambis had one year remaining on his previous contract with New York, but the two sides have decided to work out a new agreement.
While Phil Jackson, who publicly endorsed Rambis’ inclusion on the Knicks’ coaching staff earlier this week, was believed to be pushing for his former Lakers assistant to stick around, Hornacek was given the authority to make the final calls on his assistants, and is on board with the plan. “Nothing is being forced down Jeff’s neck,” one source tells Begley.
According to Ramona Shelburne of ESPN.com, Hornacek and Rambis, who were teammates as players with the Suns, have a long-standing friendship, with each coach having considered the other for a spot on his staff in the past — Rambis offered Hornacek a job with the Timberwolves, while Hornacek discussed bringing Rambis onto his staff in Phoenix.
Hornacek is also expected to add former Suns assistant Jerry Sichting to his staff in New York, says Begley.
The new coach must be thrilled to have the old coach as his assistant? Not! Rambis is not respected by his players which has already been made public. How uncomfortable for the players to see him return. Just another blunder by Jackson. We already know the marriage by Guitar Jimmy Dolan and Jackson will eventually end badly. Just a question of when? Now Dolan will have to pay Rambis when he fires both of them soon. Anyone want to bet the over on 25 wins for the Knicks this season? What a moribund front office and roster.
Think Zen Phil is setting the Knicks up for the 2017 1st pick? Too bad Isiah Thomas will be making that selection.
Hornacek is obviously a puppet coach. He’s said already in interviews that he will use the triangle. Now he would pick the guy that he knows Phil wanted to coach and will be waiting in the wings on a team that will be bad his first season guaranteed. What a mess but I’m glad he’s in NY doing it and not in LA. That’s probably his next spot as soon as Dolan parts ways and Isaiah would just keep the circus going. Happy not to be a Knicks fan but disappointing for NY and MSG.
Like I said over and over again. Phil one hell of a coach. But he questionable as a front office guy. As a laker fan I’m sorry but I don’t want him near the team if he ever leave the Knicks