L.A.'s ful-Phil-ment
Phil Jackson's return to the Los Angeles Lakers may be surprising to some, given his rocky relationship with Kobe Bryant. But it makes sense on a number of fronts.
First, the Lakers needed to make a splash with their coaching hire. The Staples Center was dead by the end of last season, and with ticket prices as high as they are in Los Angeles, Jerry Buss needed to bring the buzz back to the arena. Jackson will do so.
Secondly, Kobe Bryant needs to repair his image, and what better way to accomplish that than to welcome Jackson back to the Lakers with open arms?
Bryant has been conducting damage control since the Shaquille O'Neal trade and his legal issues of last year. A successful second run with Jackson will go a long way toward reviving Bryant's career.
And finally – and most importantly – Jackson is one of the greatest coaches the NBA has ever seen. He will make the Lakers good again.
Even with last season's talent, Jackson is good enough to bring L.A. back to the playoffs. Yes, the Lakers would like to make some personnel moves, but his presence on the sidelines will make this team better regardless.
The triangle offense will be great for Lamar Odom and Chris Mihm. Also, Bryant now knows that having the ball in his hands every play isn't necessarily a good thing.
Jackson's return also is good for the league. He is a major personality and star in his own right, and he brings an aura to the sidelines.
