The Toronto Raptors continue to wait in the wings for former Lakers coach Phil Jackson to make a decision as to where he would like to work, according to ESPN’s Marc Stein.
Jackson is said to currently be waiting to see if the Seattle group led by Chris Hansen is able to bring the Sacramento Kings north before he makes a decision as he has formed a solid bond with Hansen.
The Seattle group’s bid was recently rejected by a group of owners on the NBA’s relocation committee although Hansen and Co. recently upped their bid by a reported $75 million.
It is widely believed that Hansen would like to instill Jackson as president, the same role the Raptors are hoping he will fill in Toronto.
New MLSE boss impresario Tim Leiweke has a longstanding relationship with Jackson from their days with the Lakers and reportedly believes they have a shot to bring him North of the Border.
The Raptors still need to announce their decision on the future of current president and general manager Bryan Colangelo. He made a presentation to Leiweke and some members of the MLSE board Tuesday in an effort to get the organization to pick up the option year on his contract. A decision on his fate is expected over the next several days as the full board will meet on Wednesday.
