New York Knicks: Phil Jackson Throws Carmelo Anthony Under the Bus
Mar 27, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks general manager Phil Jackson laughs during the second quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

Phil Jackson’s press conference had some memorable moments, but the biggest takeaways came from his comments about Carmelo Anthony.

Phil Jackson’s press conference couldn’t have gone worse. The president of the New York Knicks stood in front of the media he ignored all season and finally answered their questions. Naturally, the hottest topic was the future of Carmelo Anthony.

Jackson didn’t mince words when talking about his superstar. He believes Melo’s remaining days in the NBA would be better spent somewhere else.

Via Ian Begley of ESPN:

“We’ve not been able to win with [Anthony] on the court at this time,” Jackson said. “I think the direction with our team is that he’s a player that would be better off somewhere else and using his talent somewhere where he can win or chase that championship.”

The Zen Master told reporters he thought the ten-time All-Star “would be better off somewhere else.”

Anthony has maintained throughout the season that he wanted to remain with the Knicks despite all of the trade speculation. The Los Angeles Clippers and Boston Celtics remain the most likely trade partners.

Jackson pointed out Anthony’s lack of success and implied that while the superstar likes it in New York he may like it somewhere else better. You know, where he can win.

Phil’s just trying to help Melo out.

“We haven’t won here,” Jackson said. “You don’t want to end up your career not winning. This is not something you want to have labeled on your career. … But he likes it here. He expressed that.”

 
I'm ESNY's Executive Editor for EliteSportsNY.com. I cover the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets. Email: chip.murphy@elitesportsny.com Chip Murphy covers the NBA for Elite Sports NY. You can find him on Twitter @ChipperMurphy.