It was reported in 1998 and discussed …

It was reported in 1998 and discussed in the documentary that Phil had an opportunity to return — was that accurate? Todd Musburger: Mr. Reinsdorf did say to the press and apparently mentioned to Phil, at a conversation that I wasn’t present, ‘Hey, you can come back.’ But the decision had already been made: Phil would not return. Krause announced this at the beginning of the season and made that clear time and time again. Starting a negotiation by saying, ‘This is the last contract your client will ever sign here,’ I can tell you: That was sincere. They meant it. The brilliance of that season is a study in how Phil was able to take that hostility and use it as a very strong motivational tool with his team.