Player Coach Connection

There has been considerable speculation on who will coach the Nets in the future.  Phil Jackson, Jeff Van Gundy and just about any household name has floated to the surface.  But, there has been reports stating that Billy King might just stay with  P.J. Carlesimo for the season. Its only been four games but the Nets look like they are playing with a new energy despite the embarrassment to the San Antonio Spurs.

Before the substantial win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, Joe Johnson talked about Carlesimo's style and the learning process.

He's pretty forward, man," Johnson said before the Nets played the Thunder at Chesapeake Energy Arena Wednesday night. "He just kind of tells you like it is. If you ain't playing worth a ----, he'll tell you, you ain't playing worth a ----. As players, some of us may respond a little different to it, but for me, I can appreciate it. 

"He tries to do everything he can and everything in his power to put us in position to where we can be successful."

"It's been cool, man," Johnson said. "I think he's still trying to figure us out as a team, as players, likes and dislikes. He's very understanding, a guy you can go to, talk to. He comes at you straight and direct, kind of tells you what he expects from you, and as a player you can really appreciate that."

The Nets need a coach like this. Someone who will tell the truth at all times no matter what situation. Since Joe Johnson loves it, maybe his teammates will join in with the support. Deron Williams has played better and Brook Lopez has had a couple of monster games, averaging 30 points and 11 rebounds since the coaching change.

If the Nets manage to go on a win streak, and maybe play as close as expected to, do not be surprised if P.J. Carlesimo remains the coach for the rest of the season.

Joe Johnson likes P.J. Carlesimo's direct approach - Newsday
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