When Knicks interim head coach Mike Miller was asked about the departure of president Steve Mills following practice Wednesday, he didn't talk about how it shifts the organization or what it means in the long- and short-term.
Instead, he wanted to express his appreciation for what Mills did for him.
"First, I really want to thank Steve for everything," Miller said. "When I was hired here five years ago to work for the Westchester Knicks, my final interview was with Steve. ...and my five years here I've enjoyed working with him. He's been so helpful to me and given me opportunities within this organization, and to grow as a professional. So I appreciate everything Steve has done."
With this big front-office shift, the question of whether or not the head coach will stick around is always in the air. For Miller, that question was already apparent when he took over for David Fizdale. Now he's on the hot seat even more.
But Miller isn't focused on his job security or anything of the sorts. Having spent time coaching in the G-League before his big promotion, Miller learned a very valuable lession.
"I spent six years working in the G-League -- I don't worry about tomorrow," he explained. "That's one of the things I think that anybody who has spent time in that league you learn. You deal with what's in front of you today, you appreciate the opportunities you have, you do the best job you can do. And ultimately, you help the players. Just keep helping the players. Keep helping the players grow, which makes the team better. That's what I'm concerned about every day."
So, while Knicks owner James Dolan and the rest of team brass looks for their next president, Miller will continue to focus on each game one at a time and help his players continue to improve. That will start on Thursday when the Magic visit the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.