BREAKING: Knicks and star player mutually part ways following his decision not to waive his no-trade clause

On Wednesday morning, the New York Knicks and team president Phil Jackson announced their mutual decision to part ways.

Knicks owner James Dolan stated, “After careful consideration, we have mutually agreed that the Knicks will be pursuing a new direction. Phil Jackson is one of the most esteemed and accomplished figures in NBA history, and his basketball legacy is unparalleled. We wish him the best and thank him for his contributions to the Knicks as both a player and an executive.”

The decision to part ways came after recent discussions between Jackson and Dolan accelerated. Sources revealed that the franchise decided against buying out troubled forward Carmelo Anthony. Jackson, 71, had publicly and privately expressed that parting ways with Anthony would benefit both the player and the organization. However, Anthony refused to waive his no-trade clause, and the Knicks were unwilling to agree to a buyout. Anthony still has two years and over $54 million remaining on his contract.

 

As the stalemate continued and free agency approached, discussions between Jackson and Dolan intensified, leading to the decision to separate. Some advisors had been urging Dolan to consider firing Jackson throughout the season.

Jackson commented, “The New York Knicks will always have a special place in my heart. This team and this city launched my NBA career, and I am forever grateful. I appreciate Mr. Dolan for the opportunity to return. I had hoped to bring another NBA championship to the Garden, and I am deeply disappointed that we couldn’t achieve that. New York fans deserve nothing less. I wish them and the Knicks organization all the best.”

It became evident that Jackson had no intention of staying beyond the remaining two years of his five-year contract, which was valued at $12 million annually. With ongoing issues related to Anthony, public criticism of Jackson’s preferred triangle offense, and concerns about the team’s relationship with Latvian star Kristaps Porzingis, the situation reached a breaking point before free agency.

Players and coaching staff had expressed frustration over Jackson’s insistence on running more of the triangle offense last season.

Knicks general manager Steve Mills will continue in his role and oversee the team during free agency.

Dolan added, “While we are evaluating the best way to move forward with the organization’s leadership, I will not be directly involved in team operations. Steve Mills will manage the day-to-day business of the organization in the short term. Tim Leiweke, who has significant experience in sports franchise management, will advise and work with Steve on an interim basis to help develop a forward plan.”