(above : BF’F’s Schlumpy & Zeke)
Having been publicly shamed into keeping his FIU coaching position an allegedly priority, Isiah Thomas will once again make his presence felt at MSG in an official capacity promises the New York Daily News’ Frank Isola, no doubt aware the Knicks’ non-extant credibility means an endless stream of fish-barrel scenarios for he and his colleagues.
In fact, Thomas and James Dolan are both in agreement that for now it is probably best that when Thomas does return, he comes back as a consultant. Thomas’ message to Dolan, the chairman of Madison Square Garden, is that he doesn’t want to run day-to-day operations. At least not yet.
Thomas has convinced Dolan that he can deliver Carmelo Anthony to the Knicks next summer – assuming the All-Star forward doesn’t sign a three-year, $65 million contract extension with Denver. With the Knicks failing to sign LeBron James last month, Dolan’s faith in team president Donnie Walsh and head coach Mike D’Antoni has waned, particularly when it comes to recruiting today’s young players.
It is Thomas’ thinking that if he can land Anthony or a player such as New Orleans point guard Chris Paul, it will enhance his tarnished image among Knicks fans and potentially clear the way for him to return to take over the club again. Dolan’s telling statement last Wednesday all but guarantees Thomas playing a role.
“I continue to believe in his basketball knowledge, including his ability to judge talent,” Dolan said. “He’s a good friend of mine and of the organization, and I will continue to solicit his views. He will always have strong ties to me and the team.”