As each day turns into night in the big city, Phil Jackson is slowly molding his New York Knicks into the team and franchise he envisions. Yesterday it was announced that another piece was added in the form of Kurt Rambis.
The man who is most identified with wearing the goggles in the 1980's on the Hollywood court is now heading cross-country.
Ian Begley of ESPN New York reports that Rambis, 56-years-old and former NBA player most notably with the Lakers, will accept an assistant coaching position with the Knicks under Derek Fisher, according to ESPNNewYork.com. The deal is reportedly worth $4.8 million over four years.
During the 1998-99 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Rambis enjoyed a brief stint as head coach of the Lakers going 24-13 during that period. Despite the strong record, he was relieved of his duties because Phil Jackson came to town in 1999.
Rambis became familiar with the teachings of Jackson while coaching under him in Los Angeles on two separate occasions (2001-2004, 2005-2009), according to CBSSports.com. This will add some more “triangle” experience to the mix as Rambis is very familiar with the Jackson system and will be Fisher’s right-hand man in New York. Having a strong mind next to a young, unproven coach is a necessity in the NBA.
The only other assistant in the NBA who will make more than Rambis this season will be Cleveland Cavaliers’ top helper Tyronn Lue at $6.4 over four-years.