Phil Jackson to Lakers Rumors Commented on by Jeanie Buss

New York Knicks president Phil Jackson is routinely linked to the Los Angeles Lakers due to his connections to the franchise, but Lakers co-owner and president Jeanie Buss insists there is nothing to the speculation. 

According to TMZ Sports, Buss—who is also Jackson's fiancee—shot down the notion that the 11-time NBA champion head coach could return to the franchise in any capacity: "Don't listen to that. ... Phil is in New York. He signed a five-year deal."

While Jackson is under a five-year contract, ESPN's Chris Broussard reported he can opt out following the 2016-17 campaign, if he so chooses.

Buss' assertion comes on the heels of Sportsnet's Michael Grange reporting that Jackson "badly" wants out of New York in favor of a return to L.A.

Jackson enjoyed a great deal of success during his time with the Lakers, winning five championships while patrolling the sideline.

The Knicks have struggled mightily since he took on a front office role in 2014, and they are coming off a 32-50 season. While star forward Carmelo Anthony and promising youngster Kristaps Porzingis are in place, the near future doesn't look particularly bright for the Knicks due to the absence of a first-round pick in the 2016 NBA draft.

Los Angeles has young talent, such as D'Angelo Russell, Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson, in place, as well as a potentially high pick in the draft.

It can be argued the Lakers' outlook is superior to New York's, plus the fact that Jackson's fiancee is in L.A. could be a significant deciding factor as well.

Buss is adamant that nothing is imminent with regard to the 70-year-old Hall of Famer rejoining the Lakers, but it could become a tempting proposition if the Knicks don't start making headway soon.

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