Brooklyn Nets Want Phil Jackson

The Brooklyn Nets have made retired Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson their top choice to replace fired Nets coach Avery Johnson.

ESPN.com reports that the Nets will make a hard push for the 67-year-old Jackson, who won 11 NBA titles.

Jackson’s agent, Todd Musburger, told TNT’s David Aldridge that his client has “no interest in the Nets’ job at this time.”

But sources said Jackson would entertain a Brooklyn approach. In fact, his failed discussions with the Lakers last month got him “thinking about coaching again.”

The Nets appear to be rolling out the red carpet for Jackson.

ESPN reports that the Lakers’ presumed reluctance to give Jackson the salary he wanted, and a say in basketball matters, wouldn’t be an issue with the Nets.

Jackson is considered one of the greatest coaches in NBA history, leading both the Chicago Bulls and Lakers to championships.

Jackson also played for the New Jersey Nets from 1978-1980. He played for the New York Knicks from 1967-1978