Phil Jackson Reveals Tensions with Carmelo Anthony Forced Knicks Exit

UPDATE: Phil Jackson has broken his silence on the tumultuous relationship with Carmelo Anthony that contributed to his exit from the New York Knicks in June 2017. In his forthcoming book, “Masters of the Game: A Conversational History of the NBA in 75 Legendary Players,” set for release on Tuesday, Jackson reveals that the strained partnership with Anthony essentially made his position untenable.

Jackson recounts a pivotal conversation with Knicks owner James Dolan, during which Dolan expressed concern about media scrutiny potentially forcing Jackson out. Jackson candidly responded, “Unfortunately my relationship with Carmelo is kind of busted, and if he’s going to be here, it’s probably best that I go.” This admission sheds light on the discord that plagued the Knicks during Jackson’s presidency from 2014 to 2017.

The relationship between Jackson and Anthony deteriorated significantly over the years, marked by Jackson’s public criticisms of the star forward. Excerpts published by the New York Post reveal that Jackson urged Dolan to trade Anthony, stating, “I said, ‘I don’t want Carmelo back on the team; we’ve got to find a way to trade him.’” Jackson acknowledged that Anthony, a Hall of Famer, deserved a championship-caliber team, indicating that the Knicks were not in a position to meet his aspirations.

The fallout from Jackson’s tenure didn’t end with his departure. Just three months after Jackson left the Knicks, Anthony was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder after waiving his no-trade clause. Anthony has since placed blame for his exit squarely on Jackson, stating in a web series with Dwyane Wade in February 2024, “Phil pushed me out of New York. I struggled to leave New York.”

Jackson’s book also reflects on other aspects of his Knicks presidency, including the controversial hiring of coach Derek Fisher, which he deemed a mistake. Additionally, Jackson discusses how his role impacted his personal life, including his relationship with Lakers owner Jeanie Buss, which suffered due to pressures surrounding the Knicks’ management.

This urgent revelation highlights the ongoing tensions within the Knicks organization and offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by both Jackson and Anthony during a critical period in the franchise’s history. As the release of Jackson’s book approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to delve deeper into the complexities of his tenure and the implications for the future of the Knicks.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.