The name Phil Jackson still means something. Two years removed from the coaching scene, it's time to make his voice mean something (more) too.
More importantly, it's time to move on from Phil Jackson, The Coach.
Although some don't believe he's coached his last NBA game, he's made it abundantly clear he has no intention of returning to the sidelines. If he was going to coach again, it would be for the Lakers. And that ship sailed last November, when Mike D'Antoni was hired over him.
None of this "right situation" stuff makes any sense. Jackson is a Laker; the organization is his family. Short of finding that front-office role he's been seeking somewhere else, he's not going anywhere.
You said it yourself, Jim. You told The Hollywood Reporter's Ric Bucher you "can call him at anytime," intimating that he remains a member of the franchise sans the official title.
It's time to give him that official title. Not as a coach, front-office executive or understudy to Mitch Kupchak, but as the Lakers' official color analyst. Make him the voice of Laker nation, and do it now.
Jeanie, you seem to be thinking along the same lines. According to Bucher, you alluded to Jackson filling in on some broadcasts. You might not have meant to stir the pot with such a nominal admission, but you did. And it makes sense.
What better way to ensure Jackson remains an integral part of the organization without bestowing upon him the power he demanded last fall? What other role would allow the Lakers to cater to his health without compromising the needs of the team? I can't think of one, because there isn't one.
Los Angeles is approaching a crucial stage of its existence, preparing to traverse waters it hasn't had to in more than a decade. Let his voice soothe the fanbase in ways th...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
