Could Phil Jackson Be Returning to the Lakers Specifically for Dwight?

Ever since the Lakers coaching position became available so early into the season, the rumor mills have churned out piece after piece about how Phil Jackson was destined to return to the Lakers and be the savior of the franchise.

That didn't happen.

Mike D. came to Los Angeles and things seemed to get worse, until they got better. Now on the back of a Kobe Bryant promise that the Lakers will be in the playoffs, suddenly Los Angeles has more to play for... this season.

What about when the season is over and Dwight Howard is a Free Agent? Lakers brass has already made the big man a priority, potentially making him the face of the franchise as #24 creeps further towards retirement.

However, there might be new incentive for Dwight to stay in LA: Phil Jackson.

According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN Los Angeles, Dwight and the Zen Master have an open line of communication. "This Lakers season gets more and more interesting. Dwight Howard says Phil Jackson has been texting him words of support for his back."

Could it be harmless words of encouragement? Sure. Could it mean much much more? Absolutely.

I'm trying to refrain from starting speculation that Jackson will come back to the Lakers as head coach. I don't believe he will, not at first at least.

Phil has already hinted in previous interviews he would be open to returning in some capacity. The natural position would be GM or VP of BO, which makes the Dwight contact make so much more sense. There's little incentive for Jackson to sweet talk Howard, unless he has intentions of taking on a role and wants him back in purple and gold.

From there, I wouldn't put it beyond Phil if the Lakers struggle and he pulls a Pat Riley decides to take over coaching duties, in fact, I'd almost count on it. Regardless, anticipate the Lakers announcing Jackson's new role with the organization sometime over the summer, at which point the texts between him and Superman will make much more sense.