New York Knicks team president Phil Jackson has made the decision to hire John McEnroe as a team consultant. Jackson has given the tennis legend free rein to advise the team in any capacity that he wants including draft choices, trades, and salary cap related moves. "He is a passionate fan with a brilliant mind for sports. I figured he would be a great addition to our organization, especially since he knows what it takes to win championships in New York City." Jackson was alluding to McEnroe's four US Open championships, which were all won in New York City.
In my opinion, as crazy as it sounds, this move just might do wonders for the Knicks. First of all, John McEnroe is a brilliant analyst of tennis, so it stands to reason that he is also a brilliant basketball analyst, judging by all the Knicks games he attends. Secondly, John McEnroe has tremendous pride in New York City, and will instill that same pride in Knicks players. Third, McEnroe can be a guy who Phil Jackson can go to if he needs somebody to yell at his players.
"Mac's ability to yell at people is truly a talent. He possesses the ability to really get in the face of people and make them feel inferior and worthless", said Knicks head coach Derek Fisher. "With Mac, there are no excuses, and we need to have a no excuses kind of mentality." Carmelo Anthony also lauded McEnroe for the same reasons, adding "There are days when I need somebody to get in my face and remind me that I have no championships and only one appearance in a conference final."
The only concern I have with this hire is whether or not John McEnroe will really have the time to be effective with his role given all the tennis he has to cover for ESPN. However, Phil Jackson doesn't seem to be worried about that: "We are fine with him continuing on as tennis analyst. The key thing is that he is welcome to text message me at any time with his advice and also is welcome to go wherever he pleases at Madison Square Garden at all times."
McEnroe will have free rein to access the owner's box, locker rooms, and every other square inch of the legendary arena. "Having the freedom to walk into the locker room and yell at the players with impunity really excites me", McEnroe said. "I'm also excited to have access to the owner's box and see what James Dolan keeps in his refrigerator."
"I think just having him around will do wonders for our team", said Knicks owner James Dolan. "Our players certainly will have extra motivation to step up their game knowing that John McEnroe could be there waiting for them in the locker room with an earful of complaints and criticism."
"Does it make me want to play harder? Absolutely", said Andrea Bargnani, a player who has often been criticized by the New York media. "McEnroe has told me many times that I am over-paid and lazy. Knowing he could be there at my locker after a game will certainly motivate me to play even harder."
In conclusion, I think hiring John McEnroe is a great move for the Knicks. The Knicks don't have a lot to be hopeful about, and adding a legendary sports figure to their front office is definitely exciting. In addition, McEnroe is one of the brightest and most articulate minds in all of sports. I can guarantee that he has great ideas that the Knicks will benefit from. Happy April Fools!
---Ben Parker: follow me on twitter @nba_lord for NBA news
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