New York Knicks president Phil Jackson denied that he is losing sleep over the impending free agency of Carmelo Anthony, but admitted that he is concerned about the possibility of losing the superstar forward.
In an interview with ESPN New York on Friday, Jackson said that Anthony is a huge part of his future plans with the Knicks, and it will only take one serious bidder to derail their goals this summer.
"It only takes one bidder out there that has the ability and can ruin your hopes and your chances," Jackson said.
Anthony, who averaged 27.4 points to go along with 8.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game this season, could opt out of the final year of his contract with the Knicks, and become a free agent this summer.
Jackson revealed that he recently sat down with the 30-year-old forward, and the Hall of Fame coach admitted that he tried to convince Anthony to opt in to the final year of his deal and test free agency next summer.
The 11-time champion coach said that he told Anthony to remain with the team for another year and see the direction that they will be heading into in the near future.
"I told him it might be a good idea to hang in here and see what it's like for a year and go out the next year," Jackson said. "But that's his option, that's what he's earned, and that's what's part of his contractual agreement. He has the right to do that."
Even if Anthony decides to test free agency this summer, the 11-year-veteran is expected to prioritize the Knicks, considering the fact that New York can offer a five-year deal worth around $129 million, while other teams can only put a maximum four-year deal worth $98.5 million.
However, it is still unclear at this point whether or not Jackson intends to offer a max deal to Anthony, who is expected to be lured by the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Dallas Mavericks as well.
Meanwhile, Jackson also revealed that Oklahoma City Thunder veteran point guard Derek Fisher is a candidate for the Knicks coaching vacancy, but he is unsure whether or not his former player is interested in coaching.
"He's got family in L.A. He's got little kids still in L.A. I have no idea if he wants to move his family and come here," Fisher said. "Those are things that he would have to express. There are so many unknowns."
