Isiah Thomas: LeBron James Should Have Picked Knicks
September 5, 2010 Home Page, NBA News
Here’s an interesting question: If Isiah Thomas, the poster boy for bad decisions, says you did something wrong, does that mean you actually did something right?
While attending James Blake’s match at the U.S. Open last night, Florida International head coach, Isiah Thomas said that LeBron James would have been better off joining the New York Knicks than the Miami Heat. According to Thomas, the curiosity factor of seeing James in a Knick uniform and the challenges associated with winning in New York would have made for a fascinating experience for fans.
“I think — and I honestly believe this — it would’ve been interesting to see if he could have [won a title with the Knicks],” Thomas said outside Arthur Ashe Stadium. “The curiosity factor, the whole world would’ve been drawn to watch and see if he could do it. The whole LeBron Knick thing would’ve piqued everyone’s curiosity.
“We wanted him to come to New York, but I think he’ll do well in Miami. They got a great team. I think everybody will be watching to see if they can put it together and win.”
Thomas, who formerly coached and ran the Knicks into the ground, was hired as a special consultant to the team in August before the NBA rejected the move. According to the league, Thomas’ position with the team served as a conflict of interest because he was still coaching a collegiate team at the time. After the move fell apart, Knicks owner James Dolan released a statement calling Thomas a “good friend” and said that he would “always have strong ties to the team.”
Prior to James’ now infamous performance on “The Decision,” Thomas was sent in as a representative for the team to try to lure James to New York. Though he ultimately failed — again — the move indicated Thomas still has deep ties to the franchise.
While speaking with the New York Post, Thomas commented on Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson condemning James for his decision to go to a loaded Heat team.
“I strongly disagree with their comments,” Thomas said. “[Magic] had a great team. They said they wouldn’t have left but look who they were playing with. Those teams were stacked.”
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