Scratch Jeff Van Gundy, Tom Thibodeau, Monty Williams and Mike Brown off the list. Put  Avery Johnson at the top.  Fred Kerber reports that the Nets have had talks with Johnson's representatives this week and he and Rod Thorn had "additional conversations" as well. On Tuesday, Thorn said it's down to "two to three" candidates and said he has made "no offer", but one source told Kerber a deal with Johnson is close to being finalized. 

With the Nets hosting group workouts the rest of this week, Thorn will be focusing on the draft rather than the coaching search. He says there's no timetable to name a coach and adds that he doesn't think the Nets will be trading the third pick in the draft.

Meanwhile, Sports Illustrated reports Johnson is still on the short list of the Hawks' opening along with Mavericks assistant Dwane Casey and Hawks assistant Larry Drew.

• Avery's looking like Nets' choice - Fred Kerber - New York Post
  
• Coaching Search Shrinks - Al Iannazzone - In the 'Zzone
• Hawks must decide if Mark Jackson's inexperience is worth risk - Frank Hughes - Sports Ilustrated