Steve Kerr was never enthusiastic about launching his coaching career with the New York Knicks due to the volatile culture of MSG, according to a source.

Kerr allowed negotiations with the Knicks to advance because of his relationship with Phil Jackson and because he was unsure of the Golden State Warriors' intentions.

Kerr told confidants he believed Carmelo Anthony could be a dynamic player in the triangle offense, but was less certain about whether one of the NBA's best scorers would be eager to remake his game at the age of 30.

Kerr also was worried about the patience of James Dolan in rebuilding the Knicks.

Rick Welts, CEO of the Warriors, eased Kerr's fears about Joe Lacob's abrupt dismissal of Mark Jackson despite successful seasons in 12-13 and 13-14. Welts told Kerr that Jackson had personality issues with others in the front office besides Lacob.