The Lionel Hollins era for the Brooklyn Nets has officially begun. The former Memphis Grizzlies head coach was introduced to the New York media on Monday after Jason Kidd was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for some second-round draft picks. The roster Hollins is acquiring is at an odd place as they are at risk of losing one star player while others are recovering from injuries. With a busy offseason ahead, what are Hollins' priorities?
Hollins first has to deal with the future of Paul Pierce. The veteran's contract has expired and he is heavily considering heading elsewhere despite the return of teammate Kevin Garnett. According to ESPN.com, the Los Angeles Clippers are exploring the idea of a sign-and-trade for Pierce that would allow the Nets to acquire Matt Barnes, Jared Dudley and Reggie Bullock. According to CBSSports.com, the Nets have denied a trade involving the forward, noting that if the Clippers are going to beat them to Pierce, they must sign him out right.
Pierce's future is up in the air at the moment. The forward is aware that he will have to wait for the marquee players to sign elsewhere, but that does not mean he is not looking for a solid paying contract to come his way. NESN.com is reporting that Pierce wants a two-year contract worth somewhere in the range of $9 million to $10 million. As of now it appears the only teams interested are the Nets and Clippers.
Another deal the Nets are planning involves acquiring Jarrett Jack from the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Marcus Thornton. According to Sam Amico from FOX Sports Ohio, the trade is essentially a done deal. The Cavaliers are trying to clear cap space and getting rid of Jack's three-year, $18.9 deal helps. Getting the guard certainly helps the Nets after Shaun Livingston headed to Golden State in free agency.
Hollins certainly had his success as a head coach and Brooklyn remains hopeful he can do the same with this roster. He was vital in the development of Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol. The Nets are hopeful he can have the same impact on players like Deron Williams and Brook Lopez. Both players are coming off injuries and need to regain their All-Star form if the Nets are going to be contenders again.
