Phil Jackson Reportedly Fined for Comments on OSU's D'Angelo Russell

The NBA has reportedly fined New York Knicks president Phil Jackson for recent comments he made regarding top 2015 NBA draft prospect D'Angelo Russell.

Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports had the news on Tuesday:

After witnessing Russell in action for Ohio State during the Buckeyes' 81-57 victory over Nebraska on February 26, Jackson praised the freshman guard.

"He's a great-looking kid," said Jackson of Russell, via Doug Lesmerises of the Northeast Ohio Media Group. "Great prospect."

That's a seemingly innocent, succinct evaluation. However, Jackson isn't permitted to speak about players who aren't yet draft-eligible.

Russell figures to ultimately declare for the draft and subsequently be chosen in the lottery, likely in the top five. This is just a case of bad timing and perhaps a lapse in knowledge of Association protocol, something Jackson still has to be getting accustomed to in his first year as an NBA executive.

With averages of 19.0 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.3 assists per contest, Russell's production suggests he can make a serious impact in the pros if he opts to go the one-and-done route. The Knicks would love to land someone like him in the upcoming draft, given their dire need for playmakers outside of Carmelo Anthony.

In Jackson's defense, there hasn't been much for New York to look forward to during the 2014-15 campaign other than what lies ahead. The fine is a lesser concern than the massive roster overhaul Jackson is facing in the coming years to restore the Knicks to prominence.