Leon Rose adds ‘experience’ in Knicks’ front-office revamp

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Knicks rookie president Leon Rose made it official Wednesday with his front-office shakeup in announcing the hirings of three “experienced basketball executives” – Walt Perrin, Frank Zanin and Brock Aller.

Rose also confirmed Scott Perry signed an extension for next season to remain as GM.

“We have assembled a diverse front office comprised of highly regarded and experienced basketball executives who have influenced some of the most successful players and organizations in the league,” Rose said in a statement. “These additions will complement the structure we already have in place and assist us in acquiring talent and developing strategies to build a team our fans can be proud of.”

Formerly of Utah, Perrin becomes assistant GM, college scouting. A former Nets executive, Zanin will be assistant GM, pro scouting. Aller, who comes from the Cavaliers, is VP of strategy – known more for his expertise on the salary cap and financial planning.

The biggest coup is Perrin as the Knicks may have three picks in the top 38 of the draft, including two first-rounders. Perrin assisted the Jazz in drafting All-Stars such as Gordon Hayward, Paul Millsap, Deron Williams, Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell.

“Walt Perrin has been a tremendous asset to the Jazz the past 19 years,” Utah president Dennis Lindsey said in a statement. “His work overseeing player personnel, including enormous impact on draft acquisitions has been an invaluable part of our franchise’s success and he will be missed.”

The hirings of Aller, Perrin and Zanin puts the futures of current basketball operations staffers Gerald Madkins, Harold Ellis and capologist Michael Arcieri in serious doubt. Their contracts expire in August and all were hired by Perry — with Ellis known as a key hard-working facilitator in trade talks. It is all but assured player developmental chief Craig Robinson is on the way out too. Robinson was added by former president Steve Mills as they are both former Princeton teammates.

Rose still is considering adding a couple of more scouts to the staff that also includes Walker Russell, Makhtar Ndiaye, Kevin Wilson (Europe) and John Halas.