Head coach Avery Johnson appeared on YES and WFAN this afternoon to speak with Mike Francesa about a few Nets subjects. Here are some highlights, courtesy of Colin Stephenson of the Star-Ledger and Andy Vazquez of the Bergen Record:
- The Nets aren't trying to trade any of their players, according to Johnson, who added that there's no "circus atmosphere" around the team (Twitter links).
- Johnson said he gets along very well with Deron Williams, and that the point guard is excited about the direction of the franchise (Twitter link).
- Johnson predicts that activity on Dwight Howard will pick up after the All-Star Game, and that we'll see a lot of movement in March (Twitter link).
Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News is skeptical about Johnson's comments, pointing out that the coach made similar statements nearly a year ago, right before the Nets traded for Williams. I'm inclined to agree. Even if we assume he's kept up to date on the latest talks, Johnson figures to be more concerned with keeping his players happy and motivated than updating fans on the team's trade discussions.