Although they got off to a rough start in their relationship, Kobe Bryant has developed a love and respect over the years for Phil Jackson.
Bryant trusts Jackson like no one else, and it is no secret that Bryant would love to see Jackson with the Lakers in some capacity.
According to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters, Bryant is having a tough time accepting the thought of Phil Jackson becoming President of the New York Knicks:
Kobe on Phil Jackson possibly going to the Knicks: "You know how I feel about Phil. I have so much admiration for him & respect and…"
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) March 12, 2014
Kobe continued on Phil: "Personally it would be hard for me to understand that happening twice. It would be tough I don't really get it."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) March 12, 2014
This is obviously a personal issue for Bryant, and the respect and admiration he has for Jackson plays into his feelings on the subject.
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While some believe Jackson is simply using this Knicks job as leverage with the Lakers, he is still expected to accept the front office position with the Knicks.
Bryant has said that a Lakers turnaround has to start at the top with Jim and Jeanie Buss, and then work its way down the rest of the organization.
With Bryant not looking for a rebuild in his last two years, it makes perfect sense that he would prefer Jackson to be with the Lakers than any other organization.
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