Knicks’ new prez asks for patience
Leon Rose, remaining out of the public despite taking over his high-profile job, asked for more patience from Knicks fans while promising a reward of honesty and commitment.
The team president, who was announced into his new role Monday, did not hold a press conference because, according to the team, he’s not ready for big proclamations. Rose did, however, pen a letter to season-ticket holders and provided a mostly generic outline of his plan.
“Nothing about this is easy, or quick, so I ask for your continued patience,” Rose wrote. “What I promise you in return is that I will be honest and forthright. We will develop a plan that makes sense, both to jump-start our short-term growth and ensure our long-term success. Our team will work hard, stick together and ensure we live up to the honor of wearing the New York Knicks jersey.
“While I realize that there have been difficulties on the court, what has been remarkable to me is that your pride remains so strong, your loyalty undiminished. Rest assured, I will do everything I can to create a winning organization.”
The Knicks already clinched a seventh consecutive losing season and have been rebuilding off-and-on since James Dolan took ownership. Rose, a longtime power agent with connections throughout the league, wrote that he’ll evaluate the roster, front office and coaching staff before making decisions about personnel. He committed to interim coach Mike Miller for the remainder of the season.
“I will work tirelessly behind the scenes while evaluating every aspect of the organization,” Rose wrote. “Most immediately, we will support Mike Miller, his staff and our team, who have plenty of basketball left to be played this season. I want to thank Mike for his continued leadership and professionalism during this period.”
Rose knew he was taking this job for about a month so it’s odd he’s not prepared for a press conference. At the same time, silence is the Knicks’ adopted public message. They haven’t made an executive available publicly since November despite a litany franchise-shifting moments – including the firing of the coach (David Fizdale), the firing of the team president (Steve Mills) and the trading of the Marcus Morris.
Rose, interestingly, didn’t single out any players in his letter. Instead, he highlighted draft picks and cap space.
“Our team has young talent, significant future assets (including seven first-round picks over the next four years) and an ample amount of financial flexibility in the coming years,” he wrote. “Everyone – from ownership to athletes, to staff and especially our fans – wants this team to be a winner. We will have all the resources necessary to create a great organization – one that supports our efforts to build a winning culture and gives Knicks fans, and the city of New York, the team you deserve.”
Rose, who is from South Jersey, repped LeBron James, Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony, among others. His contributions from the onset include an impressive rolodex and a deep knowledge of MSG’s unique working environment after years with Carmelo.
“He’s been extremely successful throughout his career as an agent,” Knicks forward Julius Randle said. “He established great relationships with teams and players. And has done very well for players. Who better to run the show than Leon? He had Melo, a great player here. The success Melo had. The success he’s had with all his clients.”
The big question, of course, is whether he can build a basketball team with no experience as an executive. Randle believes the skills translate.
“It does. I think a lot of the battle, especially in the position he is, is having great relationships with players,” Randle said. “So he’s coming in as a very well respected individual.”