New York Knicks Fires Mike Woodson & Whole Coaching Staff for Missing the Playoffs

Legendary coach Phil Jackson may be on the path to victory as the new president of the New York Knicks, and he believes that the first step is to let go of coach Mike Woodson and the rest of his staff on April 21, 2014.  

The Knicks did not get the final berth to enter the playoffs, which means that all-star Carmelo Anthony will not be in the semifinals for the first time in his career lasting 11 years. Even with the second-highest payroll at their disposal, the Knicks only managed a paltry 37-45 record. In the 2012-2013 season, the Knicks had a better 54-28 record, in a Sports Illustrated report. 

Jackson commented on his move, "I have tremendous amount of respect for Mike Woodson and his entire staff. The coaches and players on this team had an extremely difficult 2013-2014 season, and blame should not be put on one individual. But the time has come for change throughout the franchise as we start the journey to assess and build this team for next season and beyond."

According to a report by The New York Post, Woodson said, "I've got to clear my head first before making any comments." 

Other members of Woodson's staff who were also relieved of their duties include assistants Herb Williams, LaSalle Thompson, Jim Todd and Darrell Walker. Shooting coach Dave Hopla was also fired. Williams might still have some role for the Knicks in the next season.

Jackson made the announcement after speaking with Woodson, but the former did not speak to the staff personally. Woodson is 56 years old and still has one remaining season with the Knicks on a contract worth $3.3 million. Woodson had a 109-79 record in his two-plus seasons coaching in New York after replacing Mike D'Antoni in March 2012. 

There are speculations that Phil Jackson is looking into Steve Kerr and Derek Fisher, players he has coached before and know the infamous triangle offense best. Jackson has much to arrange to prepare for the 2014-2015 season including Carmelo Anthony who will enter the free agent market, according to USA Today.