Phil Jackson was “around” the Knicks’ training facility on Wednesday, according to Mike Woodson, who says the new club president basically is “letting me coach” with the team barely breathing in the playoff chase.
“Phil, I gather, he’s kind of staying out of the way and letting me do my thing in terms of trying to get this team in the playoffs,” Woodson said after the Knicks reconvened for practice following two days off after Sunday’s loss in Miami. “That’s OK. I’m sure when the time comes he and I will have a chance to sit down and talk and see where we are.
“But first things first, guys, make no mistake about it, we’re in a playoff race trying to get this eighth spot. That’s where everybody’s focus should be.”
Woodson added that Jackson, who is expected to bring in another coach after the season ends, is “doing the things he’s supposed to be doing” — such as meeting with the team’s scouts and GM Steve Mills — and “he’s letting me coach.”
The Knicks (33-45) have four games remaining beginning Friday in Toronto, and began play Wednesday 1 ½ games behind No.8 Atlanta in the East
