NY Knicks Superstar Carmelo Anthony Plays Down Phil Jackson Hiring

Legendary coach Phil Jackson is reportedly on the verge of taking full control of the New York Knicks' front office by the end of the week, creating speculation that the move will also seal Carmelo Anthony's future in the Big Apple.

Reports indicate that Anthony will be convinced to re-sign with the Knicks when he becomes a free agent this summer, but the All-Star forward played down rumors on Wednesday.

In an interview during the Knicks' shootaround at the TD Garden in Boston, Anthony said that Jackson's presence in the Knicks organization will not have an impact on his decision during the offseason.

"I don't think it'll have any effect on me, just as far as what I'm thinking or my decision or anything like that," Anthony said, ESPN reported. "Like I said, I haven't talked to Phil yet, just to get his insight on a lot of things, what's his plan, what's his future plan, because everything's in his hands now."

Anthony, who is averaging 28.0 points and 8.3 rebounds per game this season, made it no secret that he will opt out of the final year of his contract and test free agency this summer.

Re-signing with the Knicks remains his priority and the most ideal choice—money-wise. The Knicks can offer a maximum five-year deal worth $129 million, while other interested teams can only tender a maximum of four-year, $96 million deal.

However, Anthony reiterated that money won't affect his decision, saying that his goal is to sign with a team that will give him a good chance of winning his first NBA title.

While Anthony is saying that Jackson's hiring will not affect his free agency decision, the 11-year-veteran sounded like he is convinced the Knicks will be a title contender over the next several years with Jackson at the helm.

"I'm sure he [Jackson] will try to do his best to do what he has to do to try to build a championship team," Anthony said. "He knows how to put guys together, put a team together. We'll see what happens, but I haven't talked to him, haven't talked to anyone about the front office about their plans or anything like that."

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