Fisher wants to return

Derek Fisher has said all along that he hopes to re-sign with the Lakers and continue to chase NBA championships. He will become a free agent July 1, but he made it clear today he wants to remain with the Lakers. Here’s more:

“I’ve never mixed any statements or positions about winning and wanting to be associated with winning championships and being on the best team in the NBA. We just accomplished it again this year. It would definitely be a great opportunity with largely the same group of guys. There are a lot of questions about Phil (Jackson) and his return (as the Lakers’ coach), and I think it impacts the front office as well.

“I don’t think there’s any question about (team owner) Dr. Buss and his commitment to winning. … It’s just a matter of sitting down and working out the details. Until July 1, it’s all wishes. … I’m not set on that (a long deal). It depends on the circumstances and how the deal would look and the position of the team. I’m not chasing the money. So, I’m not looking to stretch out a deal.”