"I love Donnie," Jordan told The Post in a rare interview at the NBA's pre-draft camp. "I think they're going to do OK. They'll be fine.

"(D'Antoni's) proven he can coach," Jordan added. "He's had some winning programs. I don't think it's going to be different in New York."

His Airness arrived at Disney World's Milk House, wielding a big cigar and making a big prediction on opening night of the four-day camp. It didn't work out for Larry Brown in New York, but Jordan said it will be different in Charlotte, where Brown's the new head coach.

"This is the start of something big," Jordan said. "I'm happy because it's going to work out for me and Larry. He's going to do well for the organization without a doubt."

Jordan rescued Brown from exile last month after Brown sat out for two years following the 23-59 Knick record posted by the original Team Titanic of 2005-2006. Brown was exonerated after Thomas posted the identical 23-59 disaster this season during which he lost the presidency and head-coaching job.

As for Thomas' role in Brown's Knicks failure, Jordan said: "I can't comment on other people's relationships and what happened. For me, I'm going to try to make the best happen for the Bobcats. You know I can't comment on Isiah."

If things go smoothly in both places, the Knicks and Bobcats could compete for the final Eastern playoff spot next spring. A tanned Brown, wearing a black sports coat, was reluctant to talk on the record last night, but when asked if he's anticipating the first Knicks-Charlotte showdown, he admitted it will be an emotional night.

"I'll be there," he said, "unless I get sick."

Brown sat next to former Knicks assistant Dave Hanners, whom Brown has hired for his staff, though it has not been announced. An overjoyed Hanners said the Knicks released him from his contract and thanked Walsh. Hanners was brought to the Knicks by Brown after being his assistant in Philadelphia and Detroit.

The Knicks' assistant staff is in disarray, as D'Antoni awaits word whether his Suns assistants, Alvin Gentry and Phil Weber, will be released from their contracts. His brother, Dan D'Antoni, is negotiating a Knicks' contract.

Only Herb Williams is expected to survive from Thomas' coaching staff, with Mark Aguirre and George Glymph expected to be fired, and Brendan Suhr's future is unclear.

The Knicks normally send an army of scouts and coaches to this event, but are in flux. Only senior VP Glen Grunwald, who's running the draft, and a handful of Thomas-hired scouts were here last night and none of them is sure of his future. The reassigned Thomas was absent.

Also:

Grunwald, who has multiple years left on his pact, told The Post that even if Walsh hires a GM, such as Billy King, he's been told he'll stay aboard.

"I'm just doing the job," Grunwald said. "Donnie said he's going to keep me whether he brings in someone else in addition to me."

Walsh won't arrive until tomorrow and D'Antoni may not show.

News » Jordan says Knicks are on winning track 2008-05-31
Jordan says Knicks are on winning track 2008-05-31
ORLANDO, Fla. - Michael Jordan and Isiah Thomas feuded as players, but the Bobcats president declined to take any shots at the former Knicks coach last night. However, Jordan praised the Knicks' post-Thomas regime -- president Donnie Walsh, a fellow North Carolina alumnus, and his new coach Mike D'Antoni. More from the New York Post --> A-Rod, Jeter among top earners Foes give Big Brown the edge Van Gundy sees Laker dynasty Complete Triple Crown coverage More from The New York Post