Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak is optimistic that coach Phil Jackson will return next season.

"To me it boils down to how he feels at the end of the season," Kupchak said when asked about Jackson's recent comments regarding his future. "If he feels healthy and he sees growth and a future with this team, he'll come back. Cutting a deal is the easy part.

"I think it's really his health and looking at this team, what they've achieved, how the season ended and what he feels he can do with the team the following year. That's how I think he'll base his decision."

Jackson currently makes $12 million per season.