The Knicks removed two of the myriad offseason issues virtually burying them Friday, when they officially named Steve Mills president to continue erasing Phil Jackson’s wretched mess. Mills then proclaimed Scott Perry, formerly Sacramento’s vice president of basketball operations, the new general manager.
The moves were announced by team owner James Dolan in a press release late Friday afternoon. Dolan cited a “culture change” for the Knicks, promising to “re-establish pride, work ethic and responsibility.” Dolan also promised to “not be involved in the operations of the team.”
If he says so …
“I’m confident that Steve is the right person to take on this role and ensure that we return to one of the elite teams of the NBA. He’s got an ambitious plan that centers on building a young team focused on player development, communication and teamwork,” Dolan said. “His decision to bring Scott on as general manager is a critical first step in transforming this franchise. Scott brings tremendous skill and experience in helping to build winning basketball teams.
“As Steve and Scott move forward, I will continue to not be involved in the operations of the team.”
Mills has been the Knicks general manager since March 2014.
“I want to thank Jim for having the confidence in me to lead this team at such a critical time,” said Mills, who welcomed Perry and stressed his skill and experience. “Scott will immediately begin to put together a basketball operations department that is among the best in the league. We will all be united in implementing our strategy, which is to build our team by developing young players, emphasizing athleticism, length and defense. We have several rising young stars in the organization and we expect to add more young talent.”
League sources confirmed Perry received a five-year deal to work under Mills. Sources also said the Knicks gave the Kings a 2019 second-round pick and cash as compensation for Perry, 53, a Detroit product who has spent 17 years in the NBA, most recently as the No. 2 guy to Vlade Divac in Sacramento. Perry will report to Mills and try to erase Jackson’s disastrous reign and get a younger, more athletic team for coach Jeff Hornacek.
“It is an honor to be joining … the New York Knicks as we begin a new chapter for this beloved franchise. I am excited for the opportunity and the responsibility,” Perry said, promising “a culture that demands results, commitment and pride from everyone fortunate enough to be associated with our team. … Nothing comes close to Madison Square Garden for basketball, and it is our right and responsibility to showcase that tradition of excellence.”
One hot-button topic on the Knicks brass’ agenda will be resolving the Carmelo Anthony saga. The Knicks have requested a
meeting with Anthony to gauge his attitudes. No formal meeting has been scheduled, and the Knicks would need to do some major massaging should they not find a trade partner. Jackson basically treated the 10-time All-Star as something akin to a virulent laboratory strain, repeatedly expressing Anthony would be better off elsewhere.
Anthony has a contractual no-trade clause included by Jackson. It has been widely reported Anthony would waive it for Houston and Cleveland. The Knicks and Rockets have explored trade possibilities, but on Thursday, the Knicks halted all discussions. With a new front office, they want to talk to Anthony.
In Houston, the Rockets introduced Chris Paul, Anthony’s buddy, at a lavish press conference. The Rockets hope Paul and MVP runner-up James Harden can unseat the mighty champion Warriors. Paul was asked about the “possibility” of Anthony joining. Paul sidestepped the issue.
“The possibility? One step at a time. I don’t know about all that. I’m just trying to get through this press conference,” Paul said. “You’re jumping the gun.”
So Perry and Mills can resolve the Anthony matter. Then find a veteran point guard. Then make nice with Kristaps Porzingis. Then get a roster that might finish within several miles of .500.