Replacing a legend is the by far the most difficult feat to accomplish in sports.
From the moment the replacement overtakes the legend's position, they are constantly compared and contrasted to their predecessor. And about 90% of the time, the replacement is never fully embraced by fans for the simple fact he replaced the franchise's beloved legend.
With Phil Jackson reportedly being asked to take a $7 million pay-cut to stay on past this season as Lakers coach and Jackson being admittedly interested in "having a beer" with new Nets owner, Russian multi-billionaire, Mikhail Prokhorov after the season, Laker fans should begin preparing themselves for the worst.
In my eyes, the squabble between the "Zen Master" and the Lakers doesn't stem from a few million dollars - it stems from the lack of respect associated with those few million dollars.
I mean, what other coach in any other sport has taken a pay-cut following (potential) back-to-back championships and three straight league finals appearances?
The answer: none.
So who really could blame Phil if he didn't dream of greener pastures where the money is long and the respect is high?
You know it's certainly not lost on Ph ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Tyler Conway
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