Jeff Hornacek was introduced as the Knicks head coach on Friday. The new offensive approach will come later.
Hornacek said he will bring some of what he ran when he coached the Phoenix Suns — playing quick and small — but he also hopes to have a balanced offense.
The principles of the triangle offense, which Knicks president Phil Jackson used to win 11 NBA titles with the Bulls and Lakers, will still be present, though, Hornacek said.
“We have a great mix of players. We have veterans. We have young players. I’m excited to get this started,” Hornacek said. “The goal is to get back to the playoffs.”
The Knicks missed the playoffs the past three seasons.
The Knicks targeted Hornacek to replace Kurt Rambis and offered him the job two weeks ago. Knicks general manager Steve Mills said Friday the interview with Hornacek was the first one set up by Jackson, but it was scheduled for when both were in Los Angeles at the same time.
Hornacek said he was “really surprised” that Jackson called him about the job.
Negotiations concluded this week and he agreed on a deal that reportedly is for three years and $15 million.
Hornacek, 53, is the Knicks’ fourth coach in three years and third that team president Phil Jackson has hired since taking over in March 2014. He first hired Derek Fisher, who was fired midway through his second season and replaced by Kurt Rambis on an interim basis.
Hornacek said Friday that he has spoken with Kurt Rambis and he will continue to speak with him. He’s considering him as an assistant. Jackson said Rambis was a strong candidate for the head coaching position as well.
With Al Iannazzone
..... - Newsday