Knicks, Phil Jackson closing in on deal

The Knicks are reportedly close to a deal that could make Phil Jackson the head of the team’s basketball operations.

Speculation surrounding Jackson and the Knicks has been rampant for a few days, but per head services found out via an ESPN source that only a few details need to be ironed out. The report also said that an official announcement is not expected until next week.

Jackson retired from coaching in May 2011 after leading the Bulls and the Lakers to a combined 11 NBA titles. He guided the Bulls to six championships and the Lakers to five, the last coming in 2010.

Three years ago Jackson said at his retirement press conference that his plans didn’t include coaching in the NBA in the future but he never said anything about a front office role.

With the Knicks, Jackson would take over for Steve Mills, who was given the position of president and general manager just this past September. Mills would likely remain with the club.

Jackson played for the Knicks from 1967 through 1978 and was an integral part of their last NBA title in 1973.