Phil Jackson is trying to close the deal with Carmelo Anthony before he has a chance to begin his meet and greet with other prospective NBA teams.
The New York Post is reporting that Jackson and Anthony had a private two hour dinner meeting at Tribeca steakhouse on Tuesday.
Sources told The Post Jackson arrived at American Cut at 8:30 p.m. and waited at the bar. Anthony arrived soon after to meet him, a witness said. The duo was then seen heading through the dining room and into the “ultra-private” Black Room in the back of the restaurant.
The room seats 16, but Jackson and Anthony were alone, the source said, describing it as a place with marble tables and leather chairs. They met for two hours before leaving, the witness said. A source said the duo was in “deep conversation” during their meeting — a good sign.
I’m sure the two men addressed Melo’s impending free agency, the Knicks coaching vacancy and the prospects of Anthony taking a paycut to help the Knicks field a competitive roster.