Head Coach Avery Johson Fired By the Brooklyn Nets


by Marcel Mutoni @ marcel_mutoni

The Brooklyn Nets, struggling at 14-14 following a strong 11-4 start to the season, have relieved head coach Avery Johnson of his duties.

Johnson’s system has been openly criticized by star point guard Deron Williams, and there’s angry locker room talk of selfish play.

The Nets announced the move today.

Per the press release:

The Brooklyn Nets have relieved Avery Johnson of his head coaching duties, it was announced today by General Manager Billy King. A search for a new head coach will begin immediately. “The Nets ownership would like to express thanks to Avery for his efforts and to wish him every success in the future,” said Brooklyn Nets principal owner Mikhail Prokhorov. Johnson was named head coach of the Nets on June 15, 2010. In two-plus seasons as head coach of the Nets, Johnson compiled a record of 60-116.

In a cruel twist of fate, Avery Johnson had been named the NBA’s Eastern Conference Coach of the Month for October and November. He’s now looking for another job.

Assistant coach P.J. Carlesimo will take over on an interim basis effective immediately.