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Lakers: Jeanie Buss Says Phil Jackson Won’t Come Back

By Advith Sarikonda

Oct 28, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers president Jeanie Buss in attendance prior to the game against the Houston Rockets at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 28, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers president Jeanie Buss in attendance prior to the game against the Houston Rockets at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Lakers president made another media appearance to discuss all things regarding the team

Though she has been heavily criticized in the past during her media appearances on the Lakers behalf, Lakers president Jeanie Buss sat down with Sports Business Daily to talk about the state of the Lakers, her power in the organization, the possibility of New York Knicks president Phil Jackson returning to Los Angeles, and much more.

Specifically, Buss made sure to clear up any speculation on whether there was a chance that Jackson would return to Los Angeles.

From the interview:

"“People think that Phil is going to come back here to L.A. and it’s not true. He’s signed a five-year agreement. He is happy where he is. What I am getting from people in New York is that he’s just doing it for the money. Phil doesn’t do anything for the money. He’s completely devoted to this job. For him it really satisfies the full circle of his basketball career — starting as a Knicks player and now going back to New York.”"

Long thought of as a possibility to replace Jim Buss should he be fired in the event of another lost season in 2017, Jeanie’s comments at the very least provide some reassurance and ensure front office stability for the time being.

Moreover, this just seems like the logical decision. Why would Phil Jackson realistically leave one rebuilding situation for another—especially when the situation he’s currently in has a young player producing at a ridiculously high level and an established star as well?

Buss also stated her belief in the front office’s ability to turn things around and construct a winning basketball team after three consecutive losing seasons.

"“I want [brother Jim Buss, Lakers executive vice president of basketball operations and part-owner] to be successful. I want him to make the decisions that he is confident in making and putting the basketball team together the way he sees fit. You know, we have to give him that opportunity.”"

Aided by their top-three draft pick and $69 million in cap space this offseason, the Lakers will surely be looking to juice up the roster during the offseason. What the team will do with the draft pick and whom the team will sign remains to be seen.

Next: Rumors: LeBron James to Los Angeles In The Works?

Overall, however, these are encouraging remarks from Jeanie as they’re sticking with the current plan and not deviating from that—for now.

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