New York Knickerbockers President of Basketball Operations Donnie Walsh announced today that Mike D’Antoni has been named the 24th head coach in the franchise’s 62-year history. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed but we all know he’s getting in the neighborhood of 24 mill over 4 years.  I didn’t really know what to think as I watched the 1 p.m. press conference.   Of course as their #1 fan I knew of the changes to come for sometime now but to actually see it and witness the new blood was kinda surreal (always hated that word, everyone famous likes to use it..forgive me).

Is it the right decision, was it the right move, who will stay, who will go, who are we drafting and who the hell is coaching the summer league?… all hit me at the same time.  Dantoni is a proven winner and we will definitely score more points, but if we give up even more it won’t matter.  I’m going with him though, not that I have a chance, but I have faith in him.  He has won as a player and a coach.  He also knows how to coach.  Everyone’s last memory is Phoenix’s run and gun style but Dantoni will tell you that when he got to Phoenix he didn’t create that style until after a few practices he saw that his best 5 were a small 5 and he then knew he had to outrun other NBA squads.  He’ll look at this roster including this years upcoming pick and make an offense that works for them.  With that being said, there will be some roster changes I’m sure.

Q Rich was on hand to support his former coach and Stephon made a doo doo fashion appearance as well.  He said this is still my team, my city and I’m excited at the opportunity to play for a new regime and play uptempo fun basketball.  Now some reports stated that Dantoni said he planned on trading Steph but at the press conference, coach Dantoni said he was looking forward to working with Steph.  Probably just PR, personnel changes aren’t discussed in opening interviews but you have to take a strong look.  Steph has 1 yr. left so he will be pretty to alot of teams but if we don’t get a Rose or a Mayo it won’t make any sense at all to trade Steph unless we’re getting equal or greater value.  One thing is certain, we definitely had the asshole squad but the players have to be ready and excited to play for Dantoni with his style and coaching record.  This is still NY and its still the # 1 market, this is the Mecca and we have the greatest fans.  Whoever doesn’t show and prove will simply be banished.  Now the focus turns to the draft.

Press Conference Transcript