In NetsDaily Interview, Prokhorov Says "No Rush to Hire President"
by Net Income on Jul 14, 2010 7:00 AM EDT
241 comments
While flying the Atlantic on his Gulfstream Monday, Mikhail Prokhorov found time to answer some questions from NetsDaily.
In response to five questions emailed him, Prokhorov talked about his relationship with Rod Thorn, going from Plan "A" to "B"; what he thinks the Nets' next president should offer to the team. Finally, the Nets owner believes he has a sure-fire way to improve the fan experience in Newark...it involves Russian spies!
One headline: the Nets owner said there is "no rush to hire a president" and the responsibility is all his.
Prokhorov said speculation that Thorn has a problem with his ownership is unfounded, that Thorn's decision to leave is based on "a combination of other factors" and indeed they are dining together Tuesday in New York. As for free agency, he says the Nets' Plan "A" was limited to three players--LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. Once they were gone, the team moved to Plan "B", giving young players "the best chance for progress" while preparing for "any opportunities on the market".
He understands fans' concerns, but adds, "I want to reassure you that all of the goals we have set for our team will be achieved."
As for the ideal candidate for team president, Prokhorov said he should "be respected in the League, very ambitious and able to work well with Avery Johnson" who he described as "a killer coaching coach".
Finally, when asked about improving fan experience in Newark, Prokhorov planted tongue firmly in cheek and responded, "We’re looking at hiring the Red Army choir to perform at half-time along with Russia’s top dancing bear collective. Not to mention the Russian spies recently sent back to Moscow. We will be organizing their comeback tour to Newark. I’m sure it will be a great hit."
The full interview follows:
First of all, I want to say hi to the fans reading Nets Daily. I know it’s been a topsy-turvy couple of weeks so I’d like to just step back for a second and share my thoughts with you on the team by answering the questions put to me by Net Income.
NetsDaily: Rod Thorn has told reporters that he is not retiring and in fact told one writer that he might be willing to take on GM duties at another NBA team. It now seems that there is far more to Thorn’s departure than he has told people. What more can you tell us about his departure…it now appears that it had more to do with your ownership than previously believed.
Mikhail Prokhorov: Rod and I have very good personal relations and I think extremely highly of him. I very much wanted to keep him on Nets GM and President. But he’s worked for the Nets for 10 years, and, in our private conversations he told me "it’s time." He has been with us the whole way so far and has done a tremendous job setting up the team for a great future. Rod was instrumental in bringing Coach Avery Johnson on board. He is also helping us choose a successor for the GM role, and his advice is invaluable. You can ask Rod about this as well, but my impression is that his decision to leave the Nets is not about the new ownership, but involves a combination of other factors. I of course wish him all the best, whether he ultimately decides to retire or to take up another position. He will always have a seat of honor at all Nets games. By the way, as this text hits the internet, we are enjoying dinner together in New York City and I will be raising a glass to toast his contribution to the team.
NetsDaily: The Nets have switched gears dramatically in the off-season, from going after big names—"the very best of the best" in your words—to rebuilding with very young players. This has caused a lot of concern among fans. You talk about the goals being "intact". How can that be when in fact the team’s whole direction has now changed?
Mikhail Prokhorov: I have spoken before about having many plans at the ready to achieve our goal, which remains the playoffs in one year and a championship within five years. This is the way I approach all of my businesses. It allows me to stay flexible and to be prepared for changing circumstances.
Under what we call our Plan A, there were only ever three top free agents we were interested in paying top dollar for. When it became clear (and, as you know, I predicted this early on), that all three were likely to go to Miami, we did not want to bring other big name players on board around whom, in our opinion, we could not build a winning club. Don’t forget, we’re not building a top five team, we’re building a championship team and that requires a completely different strategy. Then it becomes clear that other top names who can’t bring us a championship on their own are not worth splurging on.
So we have shifted our focus to building a team with great potential under Plan B. We have the youngest team in the NBA and we can give our players the best chance for progress, especially with the talents of Avery Johnson, who is a killer coaching coach. And here I see no contradiction with Plan A: We are in a perfect position to take advantage of any opportunities on the market. We have plenty of cap space and tradeable assets, if needed. Finally, as a businessman, it gives me pleasure to know we don’t have a single player who is overpaid. On the contrary, each of them is potentially undervalued.
I’ll also take this chance to say that some of you fans may be upset or even a little angry following last week. I understand where you’re coming from and appreciate your passion. But I want to reassure you that all of the goals we have set for our team will be achieved, and, when the season begins, you will love this team and be part of an amazing comeback.
NetsDaily: Taking into account that the team’s direction has changed, describe your ideal candidate for president of basketball operations and why has it taken so long to find him?
Mikhail Prokhorov: For a championship team, we need a president with a combination of professional skills. He should be respected in the League, very ambitious and able to work well with Avery Johnson. We need not only teamwork among the players, but great teamwork on the management side. I am a newcomer as an owner, I need to touch and smell everything myself and this takes some time. We’re in no rush to hire a president, but we want to hire the right one. If we don’t get the intended result, I am the only one who is to blame, and I am used to taking full responsibility for what is going on.
NetsDaily: What has been your biggest surprise since taking over the Nets ownership?
Mikhail Prokhorov: I have been surprised by how people have welcomed me, both into the league and into the greater world of American sports. When I’m in the States, all kinds of people come up to me to shake my hand, congratulate me and wish me luck. Some of them have asked for my autograph on basketballs and t-shirts or to take a picture together, which is something completely new and unexpected for me. Even though professional sports is about tough competition, the atmosphere I’ve felt is very friendly. Oh, and one other thing, the potential for winning is bigger than I expected.
NetsDaily: In what ways, other than the roster and basketball operations staff, will fans notice your impact on the franchise? Will there be clear changes to the arena experience (other than the arena itself)?
Mikhail Prokhorov: We’re looking at hiring the Red Army choir to perform at half-time along with Russia’s top dancing bear collective. Not to mention the Russian spies recently sent back to Moscow. We will be organizing their comeback tour to Newark. I’m sure it will be a great hit.
Thanks to all of you for your ongoing interest in the Nets! I look forward to seeing you at the start of the season.
Mikhail
3 recs |
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This man is amazing.
July 1st in this b***h wuzzzzup
-Proky and Hova
by NetsMets4Life on Jul 13, 2010 6:05 PM EDT reply actions 9 recs
Also, major props to NetsDaily for this.
This is one of the best team blogs in the entire NBA, no doubt about it.
July 1st in this b***h wuzzzzup
-Proky and Hova
by NetsMets4Life on Jul 13, 2010 6:10 PM EDT up reply actions 19 recs
ok one of ?? why not the best or top 3 !
by Jarkid Shen on Jul 13, 2010 11:11 PM EDT up reply actions
It probably is.
I dont go around other SB Nation blogs much, but I do know that this blog is one of the tops.
"Hope for the Best, Expect the Worst"
Let's hope this motto changes...
by NetsMets4Life on Jul 13, 2010 11:52 PM EDT up reply actions
other SB Nation blogs
i havent seen em all — just blunder into them occasionally — the ones i saw can’t hold a candle to this
Agreed. Quality-wise, some of them are right up there – like ‘Orlando Pinstriped Post’ – but this one would almost certainly be ahead in the Power Rankings lol.
Popeye Jones - scaring the children of New Jersey since 2010.
'The Crossover' - a Nets and Knicks podcast. http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=268817312
BloodyElbow
is the closest one on here…
-Say man when I was growing up we wanted a Jacuzzi, we had to fart in the tub.
Well, I plan on being a Nets and Mets fan for the rest of my life. Thanks.
"Hope for the Best, Expect the Worst"
Let's hope this motto changes...
by NetsMets4Life on Jul 13, 2010 11:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Watch out...
Avery is a killer coaching coach.
But, in all seriousness — good interview. I really like what the Nets have done this off-season, but I seem to be in the minority so hopefully to those who have doubts this interview will supress them. I still think the Nets are a 40+ win team.
my favorite line
other than the Russian spies, the dancing bear collective and the Red Army choir, who I have on my IPod
Awesome interview!
Good to hear straight from the man that the plan is still a GO.
is it November yet???
"Not to mention the Russian spies recently sent back to Moscow. We will be organizing their comeback tour to Newark."
Looking forward for certain congressman to start investigation. LMAO
Wait, NI interviewed Prokhorov?
Hell yea! NI is going big time
why you have never interviewed a billionaire
oh yeah none of but him has ;-)
I would hope you would support who we are. Not, who we are not. Coach Norman Dale "Hoosiers"
by dmitchell624 on Jul 13, 2010 8:02 PM EDT up reply actions
none of US*
I would hope you would support who we are. Not, who we are not. Coach Norman Dale "Hoosiers"
by dmitchell624 on Jul 13, 2010 8:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Good work, well done
Its stuff like this that makes me check Netsdaily every 10 minutes! Really starting to effect my productivity…
Good to see Prokhorov has a sense of humour.
by Mr Flea on Jul 13, 2010 6:17 PM EDT reply actions 3 recs
Is it me?......
Everytime I hear an interview with Proky….I believe the man. I am one who believes we made great moves this off season with the addition of young talent. If we add the right “AllStar” our team will be in the run for a long time coming!!!
NJ Nets all day!!!
by Rp15x on Jul 13, 2010 6:19 PM EDT via mobile reply actions 2 recs
I think what Proky takes away from this FA season
is that when he does put plan A into effect, he is going to need a 1 and 1A. I think he is going to position cap space, expiring contracts, and tradable assets as such.
VODKA?
The only Russian on earth who doesn’t drink Vodka…OH PROKY, YOU ARE STILL OUR ONLY HOPE!
Paul from Delray Beach
great interview! he's smart and very witty
And he makes a lot of sense. I’m feeling better about things – NI, can I change my vote on the Nets Fan Confidence Poll?
The Hornets are parted ways with general manager Jeff Bower, according to team sources.
It appears to have been a mutual decision.
Read more: http://realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/68122/20100713/hornets_part_ways_with_bower/#ixzz0tbVQdX8z
please god no!
Thorn should take the Hornets job
We get Chris Paul, mission accomplished.
by imdkidd on Jul 13, 2010 6:48 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Very nice job NI/ND
You site is getting better and better!
Damn i Got a Man crush
he’s like the dos equis most interesting man in the world combined with the old spice guy.
i’m falling for his lines. LOL
Can you inagine how women feel?
They don’t get to approach the man closer than 5 feet. All collapse of dehydration.
by Belarus4life on Jul 13, 2010 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Proky As The Old Spice Guy!
“Hello Fans, look at your owner, Now back to me, now back at your owner, Now back to Me, Sadly he isnt me, but if he stopped playing in a blues band he could be cool like me, Look down now look up!, where are you? You’re in the Playoffs….”
by power_njerz on Jul 13, 2010 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 14 recs
I like that he takes responsibility for the President hire...
Readily says it is all on him. And the guy is no fool. I cannot see him hiring someone with a lousy record. He is much smarter than that.
Great read.
" I'm really excited to take the worst team in the league and turn it to be the best in the league." --Mikhail Prokhorov.
NETS' greatest acquisition, EVER!
It’s nice to know he’s accomodating.
5 years sure is a long time. But as a NETS fan, we’re used to not being in the finals. LOL.
But we certainly are far more accustomed to it
Than any OTHER tri-state area team ;)
by NetProfit on Jul 13, 2010 6:48 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Mourning fleeced us ... and JKidd
He signed up with us to have his transplant in NY.
That’s his plan.
He never really wanted to play for us, his loyalty is with the Heat.
Wow
He really thinks he can make a playoff team next year.
World Series attitude, champagne bottle life, nothing every changes so tonight is like tomorrow night.
All right so plan Y is well into effect
and I am happy overall
Since the face been revealed the game got real
Great Job NI
You read our minds NI. you asked the right questions at the right time.
Mikey is definetly the Nets savior. He values the Nets relationship with NJ and that has been missing since Ratner took over.
Mikey is a basketball guy and a billionaire. Great competitor too. I’m proud to be a Nets fan
I wonder if..
Yormark realizes the merchandising potential..
Proky jerseys would outsell players jerseys, no doubt..
Great job Net Income!
I think Proky keeps confident about the playoffs
Because they plan to see what fallout occurs on rosters due to teams not starting well (perhaps Chris Paul breaks free) and/or teams getting ready for the CBA.
Once I realized that Lebron was a pipe dream, I felt secure in not signing any of the group B guys. I agree with Proky on this.
I truly believe he and Thorn are thinking there is a chance to grab a piece to the championship puzzle in having the flexibility to trade.
I would bet good money that the November team and the February team look different in a major way.
at least we have an owner that keeps our dreams alive
it doesn’t matter if the promises happened or not, as long as you know they’re doing their best to make it happen.
You keep your FAITH.
Proky is the best...
Now sign Louie A and surprise us with an awesome President hire.
Proky really knows how to convince someone...
I wasn’t too sure about this upcoming season, thinking that it might be another losing season….. But after reading this interview, it really helps to bestowed confidence in this team in this upcoming season… it made me believe that we really do have a chance to make the playoffs.
Are the Cavs that bad
There summer league team is playing a bunch of D-Leguers right now??? This game is horrible.
That's just summer league scheduling
It has nothing to do with quality.
by Newark2Brooklyn on Jul 13, 2010 8:50 PM EDT up reply actions
yeah the suns played d leaguers yesterday
"Don’t forget, we’re not building a top five team, we’re building a championship team" - Mikhail Prokhorov
Wow this kid Lampe
Theta the Knicks drafted years ago in 03 actually looks pretty good, we all made fun of him.
But I want to reassure you that all of the goals we have set for our team will be achieved, and, when the season begins, you will love this team and be part of an amazing comeback.
I hope the man is right
"We’re the new Nets. We’re leaving the old behind and we’re in with the new. Hopefully LeBron is going to be a part of that."
-Coach Avery Johnson.
I'm confident in the direction of the team
Because of Proky and Avery, I know people wanted a quicker turnaround but I think that would have been unreasonable given we won 12 games, but we can still get a star in a trade I guess, were moving in the right direction, no more Bobby Simmon’s and Alston’s, all young players who are athletic and can do multiple things.
Also
The pick ups were exactly what we’ve lacked last season.
We sucked in last quarter situations – Outlaw has been know as a “Mr.4th Quarter”
No shooters – Picked up Marrow
Lack of D and Rebounding – James the big 12 leading rebouder
And think Farmer will fit in better with Avery than he did under Phil’s Triangle Offense. he loves to run and plays aggressive.
Mike Miller
From Rotoworld:
Word out of Las Vegas is that Mike Miller’s deal with the Heat is not secure, and that teams are advising him to consider not joining the team.
Miller says the deal is not done and it now sounds like there’s a chance he won’t join the Heat. We still think they’re the favorites for his services, but it’s not yet a done deal, and Miller could end up elsewhere. Stay tuned.
Great job NI
Keep working those relationships within the Nets brass. I feel that much closer. Prokhorov really doesn’t reveal that much in interviews, though. Even on the fan he wanted to know the questions ahead of time. It is interesting when he talks about his life, but I would rather hear what Thorn or Avery has to say when learning about the Nets.
He’s a little bit of a hype machine.
Best Quotes?!??!?!?
U guys missed it…
These were the best quotes:
“Avery is a killer coaching coach” &
“I need to touch and smell everything myself and this takes some time”
Dear NetsDaily and NI
Are you guys friends with Jim Popkin?
That's funny
he told me about you, when he found out how huge a fan I am… We’re working on a movie project together. Pop is a good man!!
Thanks.
I hope I can meet him one day. He is definitely one of the most interesting men in the world.
Lucky me
I got to mee the Rat instead….There is still time.
Making himself accessible is such a great marketing tool
He’s the most exciting member of the Nets right now (sorry Brook)
by Mookie Blaylock on Jul 13, 2010 7:48 PM EDT reply actions
So from what he said about the front office positions, is it possible there are more options then the two named so far?
Since the face been revealed the game got real
probably
he said there’s no timeline.
it’s possible that he’s not happy with the interviews he had so far?
I can't see him hiring a retread
unless the guy has serious value
by Mookie Blaylock on Jul 13, 2010 7:52 PM EDT reply actions
New Nets President
Great interview. Big thx to Mr. Prokhorov for addressing us fans. If anybody close to Prokhorov is reading…please get Kevin Pritchard!! Please!!
by Special_Delivery on Jul 13, 2010 7:53 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Title shouldve read New Nets GM.
by Special_Delivery on Jul 13, 2010 7:54 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Prithard as President n Marks as GM could be nice.
by Special_Delivery on Jul 13, 2010 7:55 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
would Pritchard let Marks do his job, though?
if he’s as arrogant as they say he is, can he delegate?
by Mookie Blaylock on Jul 13, 2010 7:56 PM EDT up reply actions
That would remain to be seen...
But if Pritchard CAN indeed delegate his power and take constructive criticism, it would be a hell of a combination. I think it would be worth a shot to say the least.
by Special_Delivery on Jul 13, 2010 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions
I'm really starting to hate your indirect replies
Honestly, you’re starting to develop connections or “sources”. How many off the record information are you getting? And is it from the Nets? Local media? or league sources?
LOL
Sean Williams starting for the Bucks summer league squad.
What a Stroke of Post-Modern Genius...
If ND/NI concocted this whole interview?
Pure, Creative Genius.
And all of us were like lil’ kids salivating over the fact we just found out that someone we know talks to Santa Claus or Jesus.
the fact he was willing to do an interview with a blog in itself
shows he’s about 130 years ahead of like 90% in understanding fans/how the media/world is changing and etc. I can’t imagine Jim Dolan, or any owner in MLB or
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
in MLB or the NFL.
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
Jim Dolan is cool...
Haven’t you seen him playing the sax?
hes awesome at guitar
"I dont want to be the next Michael Jordan, I only want to be Kobe Bryant." - Kobe Bryant
by NJ Champ on Jul 13, 2010 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
must be tough to play
with sausage fingers
-Say man when I was growing up we wanted a Jacuzzi, we had to fart in the tub.
by NetLogic on Jul 14, 2010 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
A Look Into the Eastern Conference and Our Squad
My prediciton based on current rosters:
1. Heat
2. Orlando
3. Boston
4. Chicago
5. Atlanta
6. Milwaukee
7. New Jersey
8. New York
I’m iffy about trading TWill. My question is who the “superstar” is that he (Proky) wants. If it’s Paul, then perhaps Harris is traded in another deal. But Proky seemed to think that Harris is an All-Star under Avery. If we were to get a PF, who do you think we could get? Would Blazers give up Aldridge? How about David West? Josh Smith?
by corky_romano4life on Jul 13, 2010 8:27 PM EDT reply actions
i can see portland giving up aldridge
"I dont want to be the next Michael Jordan, I only want to be Kobe Bryant." - Kobe Bryant
who else they have?
and is aldridge a “championship pf”?
by corky_romano4life on Jul 13, 2010 8:33 PM EDT up reply actions
i think portland might be rebuilding
"I dont want to be the next Michael Jordan, I only want to be Kobe Bryant." - Kobe Bryant
i think they have a decent team that can go to the playoffs, but in the west they’re not gonna go deep in the playoffs. so they might want to trade their tradeable pieces to get back younger talent
its just a hunch
"Don’t forget, we’re not building a top five team, we’re building a championship team" - Mikhail Prokhorov
wow
aldridge is signed until 2015. Has $65 mil left. worth it?
by corky_romano4life on Jul 13, 2010 9:28 PM EDT up reply actions
I will continue...
It’s Ricky Rubio and everyone here is going to be disappointed and I will have to stick up from him too. Since I am devoted to the Rubio campaign, I announce my determination to confront the criticism admirably.
if it's ricky rubio i'll throw a party
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
Yeah
But who would we have to give up to get him?
by corky_romano4life on Jul 13, 2010 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions
even if Prok thinks Harris is an All-Star
if you have the chance to trade an All-Star for a superstar, you make that deal
by Taylor Bartle on Jul 13, 2010 10:07 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
good job NI
I remember the old forums at nj.com and other websites…netsdaily has stepped it up!
“Don’t forget, we’re not building a top five team, we’re building a championship team”
LMAO niiiicceee Proky Niccceee
"I think Jay and I look really great. I’m looking into the possibility of buying the building and having it shipped back to Moscow," he said.
It might just be me
but during Lebron watch the comments were like breaking a 1000 posts every new story, it seems like some of them dropped of. Any one else notice the same thing, or maybe the guys have just been pumping out more stories so we don’t stay in the same open thred as long.
Anyone else see the same thing????
Since the face been revealed the game got real
comments will come and go
We’re fine, we’re Nets fans remember? We’re like mushrooms.
During the past years, Nets forums are like this, especially during the “dog of summers”.
"Beat the Heat!"
that's fine
means the bandwagon jumpers are gone
by Taylor Bartle on Jul 13, 2010 10:07 PM EDT up reply actions
it was 1000 posts
by like the same 8 people
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
LOVE!
I love this man, he’s a billion times better than Ratner. And I want to be in the LOUD Majority and say I think we had a terrific off-season. Even without signing Lebron, we have a young and athletic roster that can shoot and be valuable assets for future deals.
Hmmm...
Aldridge makes another $65 million till 2015. Josh Smith on the other hand only has 3 years left on his deal at a somewhat reasonable rate of $37 mil. Issue with that is that we wouldn’t have any flexibility for Melo.
But a three year stint with Josh Smith would be good for the Nets IMO because he’d play D next to Brook. Let Favors develop.
How about this wicked nice lineup I just conjured up (NBA 2k11 style as MrDB says):
Chris Paul
Morrow or Lee
Carmelo Anthony
Derrick Favors
Brook Lopez
So first trade TWill, Lee, cash, picks for Chris Paul.
Then trade Harris, picks, cash for Josh Smith.
Free agency comes. If Favors is ready, do a sign and trade of Melo for Josh Smith.
CHAMPS
by corky_romano4life on Jul 13, 2010 9:57 PM EDT reply actions
Why would Atlanta be giving up their star power forward for Devin Harris???
Since the face been revealed the game got real
by BL3ACH on Jul 13, 2010 9:58 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
ok fine
forget the Josh Smith thing then… jeez.
Trade TWill, Lee, Picks, Cash for Paul
Trade Harris picks, cash for Melo.
That’s a better team than Miami. I mean it. Chris Paul will make Favors and Lopez unbearable because he’ll get them the ball every time and they’ll score. Plus add Melo… who can you double team? The Nets would have a top 3 point guard, top 3 center, top 3 SF, nice PF, and a shooter. What else do ya want?
Right now this team:
Chris Paul / Jordan Farmar / Uzoh
Anthony Morrow / Quinton Ross
Carmelo Anthony / Damion James
Derrick Favors / Kris Humphries
Brook Lopez / Zoubek / Petro
would beat:
Chalmers
Wade
LeBron
Bosh / Haslem
Ilgauskas
And I heard the Mike Miller thing is collapsing, true?
by corky_romano4life on Jul 13, 2010 10:08 PM EDT up reply actions
lol, no I was just saying they have Smith and Horford and some backup guys. For them to part with him it would take a lot to change their mind. Don’t need a big star PF just someone who can start imo
Since the face been revealed the game got real
Because ofJJ's Contract
And Marvin Williams’ ugly one
And they need to extend Horford
And will need a PG after Bibby expirers
And Pachulia makes good money
etc…
by Jack Handy Jr on Jul 13, 2010 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions
so then
you think harris for him makes sense?
by corky_romano4life on Jul 13, 2010 10:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Better sense...
… than most of the deals happening this summer.
sense
this summer makes none
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
It may not make sense, but it does make dollahs!
Proky! Hollah!
We’re looking at hiring the Red Army choir to perform at half-time along with Russia’s top dancing bear collective
i don't think you're allowed to invoke the hollah
unless you want someone to be fired
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
Why
Do i feel like this team resembles an AND 1 street hoops team? Guys are gonna be dunking all game long
Here's what I find most interesting
Don’t forget, we’re not building a top five team, we’re building a championship team and that requires a completely different strategy. Then it becomes clear that other top names who can’t bring us a championship on their own are not worth splurging on.
With that said, you can forget Luis Scola, Marvin Williams, Josh Smith, etc. He could very well give Brook a huge contract extension down the road. Carmelo and Chris Paul are his two targets for the next two years. I don’t see us pursuing a PF unless they can be had cheap or if Al Horford emerges as a superstar next season … doubtful. Thus, its Derrick Favors or bust.
by imdkidd on Jul 13, 2010 10:15 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Thus, its Derrick Favors or bust.
That’s a bad plan then.
World Series attitude, champagne bottle life, nothing every changes so tonight is like tomorrow night.
I hope this isn't a hard rule
Because if it is and if he’s unwilling to bend on it, he could very well be shut out again on future opportunities. What I’m wondering is, if he’s one piece or even two pieces away from a championship caliber team, will he be willing to overpay a little just to close the deal. For example, next season, say if Derrick Favors still hasn’t develop into a force but Lopez, Lee, Harris, and our bench players were solid, will he go after Carmelo AND Al Horford. Horford will be a restricted free agent and we’ll probably have to overpay.
FA signings...
I think the rule is to refuse to overspend on free agents who aren’t elite level talent. Instead it seems the nets will continue to collect young talent on reasonable contracts and draft picks which can often be used to trade for elite talent.
by BKNfastbreak on Jul 13, 2010 10:49 PM EDT up reply actions
If anything...
… it’s simple recognition that NBA championships are won by superstars surrounded by the right complementary pieces.
Right now Avery has to teach them pieces to play team defense, and see what develops. Nets have a 2 year window to add a franchise player before they have to commit money to Brook, plus whatever chance there is that TWill or Favors could break out.
Gotta figure AJ had a large say in the players the Nets have signed, so if it doesn’t work, he’s going to have to deal with the consequences. Offensively, looks to me like there’s 3 guys who can run the pick n roll (Harris, TWill and Farmar), 2 bigs to work off of (Lopez, Favors) and a lot of guys who will spread the floor and can hit open shots if the defense sags off them (Lee, Morrow, Outlaw, James)
Watch how OJ Mayo carries himself during th D-League
He was working on his game, not trying to be a streetball star. He was professional. Those are the guys you win with. Players like TWill don’t seem to figure it out until they bounce around the league a little bit. At they point their just good role players – never superstars.
even if that doesn't happen
I see him becoming like AI-2, which is a great player, but not a superstar.
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
Nets won 2 of first 4 games in league, because of TWill.
What is wrong with TWill learning how to take over game and create offense, when needed?
Twill has to learn that skill.
TWill is now best player on team for creating offense.
As long as he does what coach wants, and “cools it” when asked to.
rec'd
exactly – about the Chris Paul and Carmelo thing.
GET IT DONE.
by corky_romano4life on Jul 13, 2010 10:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Great Interview
Hope this man is all about substance bit just talk.
by NetsYankee on Jul 13, 2010 10:22 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Jeff Bower has just been fired as GM for NO according to Marc Stein
http://twitter.com/STEIN_LINE_HQ
No wonder he was interviewing for Nets position, but had to back off when Avery nixed him.
Reports are that Kevin Pritchard is the frontrunner to replace him
Given Monty Williams former relationship with Pritchard in Portland, they see a fit.
Proky promised making the playoffs.
That is inconsistent with team being a good player and good health away from meeting that goal.
If the reason for not going after Scola is out of fear the Houston would match, then I like my chances that it would end up in a S&T. Would Houston offer Scola $36 million for 3 years, when they drafted Patrick Patterson and are considering getting Brad Miller?
Worst case is it would get another team to go well over the cap.
he promised if everything went to plan
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
And he's still promising it despite plan A failing.
World Series attitude, champagne bottle life, nothing every changes so tonight is like tomorrow night.
Would you rather he stay silent?
-Say man when I was growing up we wanted a Jacuzzi, we had to fart in the tub.
Irrelevant?
World Series attitude, champagne bottle life, nothing every changes so tonight is like tomorrow night.
Great work and thanks
to those involved in getting this interview with Proky!!
Great Interview
No doubt Dave D, Fred and Al are a wee bit jealous.
Dave D does not care...
He’ll just write another insulting article on Proky and guess that we will trade TWil.
Well, Proky has proven that not only can he name 10 NBA players, he can name at least 10 of his own players.
I wonder if Proky has his secretary check NetsDaily from time to time for fan reaction?
Erick Dampier is about to be bought out by Bobcats.
Would he be a potential near minimum player for a 1 year deal?
Nets need a tough Big desperately, even if age 35. Zoubek wouldn’t be missed.
I can see Bosh requesting that Riley pick up Erick for minimum, so that he doesn’t have to play Center.
Z can't play 48 minutes and apparently Bosh wants to play 0 minutes at center.
Still haven’t heard if Z is accepting a 2 year deal at Vets Min.
If not, then don’t the Big Three have to take further pay cuts?
Cousins 19 ppg and 13 rebs
"We’re the new Nets. We’re leaving the old behind and we’re in with the new. Hopefully LeBron is going to be a part of that."
-Coach Avery Johnson.
good idea. would be worth it over next 5 years.
A “STONE COLD FOUR”
I'll let Billy King go after Cousins, without telling Proky.
Phila. is probably also regretting not taking a chance with Cousins.
Doug Collins tried to belittle Cousins at press conference.
And Thorn said he was a Stone Cold Five.
Cousins will have great nights against Phila. and Nets.
Courtney "Freaking" Sims got double-double against DeMarcus Cousins
with 13 pts and 14 rebs with 4/8 shooting, while Cousins jacked up for 8/20.
by Jarkid Shen on Jul 14, 2010 1:37 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Woj
Y! Sources: Billy King emerges as frontrunner as New Jersey Nets top executive: http://tinyurl.com/2a85bl9
by corky_romano4life on Jul 14, 2010 12:05 AM EDT reply actions
So King it will be...
Good judge of talent and decent with trades.
Horrible with contracts but maybe he learned his lesson or Marks can set him straight.
disturbing...
Johnson has frightened off several potential president candidates, who simply didn’t want to deal with him as coach, sources said.
by lassetjus on Jul 14, 2010 12:19 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Check Billy King's record on hoopshype...
Good drafting and decent trading. But horrible contracts.
Could someone get smarter with contracts? Could Marks keep him in line?
Original plan was to give Marks a promotion (to GM).
Now it appears that Billy King would have both spots.
So will Marks be Vice President + Assistant GM?
I guess Avery has special “not to be fired by President” clause. Only Proky can fire Avery I suppose.
I kind of like Danny Ferry because he stuck up for his coach in Cleveland and set “rules” for the players that LeBron didn’t like.
Now Woj says Marks would handle day-to-day GM responsibilities.
I have no problem with Avery having a say in personnel decisions.
You don’t get a player and then let the coach sit him on bench. Coach has to be involved.
People aren’t complaining in Phila. about Doug Collins making player decisions.
Nor in Charlotte with Jordan interfering with trades.
Avery is a strong personality...
I’m willing to give him a shot. His personality comes with the territory.
Thorn recommends King because King killed him on multiple trades.
yes
but did avery cause us to lose a prichard and others we wanted?
Probably...
I am very worried about King’s bad contracts and cap management.
I think
that Proky will have control with the cap stuff – he’s focused on the guys he wants and won’t let the Pres/GM make a “stupid” move.
How is he regarded around the league? Do other GMs like him? Did anyone else find it weird that Ferry whimped out because he didn’t want to compete?
by corky_romano4life on Jul 14, 2010 12:46 AM EDT up reply actions
more than frightening
I want Jerry Manuel fired now, not three years from now. That is my stance.- John Peterson
What about the lockout??
I would have loved to hear his response to the situation with the CBA, and where he stands on how this could effect his 5 year plan, and his future as an owner in post-lock out era NBA
by Chakroot on Jul 14, 2010 12:25 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
I would have been happy with a top 5 NBA team with David Lee and Nets as equal to Knicks in New York area.
Proky may have lost chance to achieve a top 5 NBA team. Noone is beating Miami for quite some time and nothing Proky can do about it.
I would rather have been of fan of Dallas over last 6 years, than Miami, and won 1 Championship, but several bad to mediocre years.
You thought with the addition of D. Lee we became a top 5 team?
Since the face been revealed the game got real
Playoff team for sure, possibly 2nd round in 1st year.
Then with so many young players improving, better in years 2-3.
Melo and CP3 aren’t coming, if healthy.
Even with Scola, and a 3 year deal, playoffs would be likely.
No one is beating Miami for quite some time
they still require that they play the games.
"No one is beating Miami for quite some time"
NOT SURE YOU’RE RIGHT…heat are in the top 8 now. let’s see what they got.
They're one injury away ...
"Beat the Heat!"
by faNETicS on Jul 14, 2010 6:55 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
if you follow hockey...
What you describe is the NJ Devils… They have finished in the top 5 for the past five years but have failed to get past the 1st round of the playoffs. I am a Devils fan and it is very frustrating. I feel they are stuck in limbo, not being able to draft a superstar like Crosby or Ovechkin, or Kane, by picking late in the 1st round every year.
Top 5 in NBA means going to the Finals or semi-finals.
Proky isn’t planning to miss playoffs, so there will be NO top draft picks in his plan either.
Just beating out the Knicks for the respect of New York, would be an accomplishment.
It didn’t happen when Nets played in finals.
Reminder that Nets apparently still own the rights to Josh Boone.
http://hoopshype.com/salaries/new_jersey.htm
Josh wanted to return to Nets.
If other plans for a “Big” fail, wouldn’t Josh be better than noone?
He could probably be kept on for a one year contract around 2-2.5 million.
If only Avery could make get free throw lessons, he’d be Okay.
free throw lessons
HOW ABOUT HYPNOSIS? If you shoot jump shots better that foul shots, it means you’re getting in your own way somehow.
I think there are free throw teachers, trained in psychological problems.
Boone’s form is Okay part of the time. He just is too emotional or lacks confidence or something, to focus and repeat correct form 100% of time. Early on, I think, he was hitting close to 60% over periods of time. I think he shoots much better in practice.
Proky can afford to hire the best teachers.
I do Like
That Prokhorov says were on plan B, and that there is still C and D available…IDK thats just comforting to me for some reason
Islanders Expansion Plan Nixed on Long Island
If they come to barclay’s there’s Proky’s financial win on the arena already – it’ll be busy all the time. They may build a new arena next to citi field though.
Wake me up when the plan includes winning
Because right now this team is the worst thing you can be in professional sports.
IRRELEVANT
Proko can talk about dynasties, show off his lear Jet, date supermodels and fly to Paris on a whim for a bottle of french wine, but that doesn’t change the fact that this team struckout royally in free agency and we are in for another long year.
Hopefully that changes in the future, I want to believe that it will, but this first off season under Proko has been an unmitigated disaster and no amount of bells and whistles can mask that reality.
I hear what your saying, but he hasn’t owned the team for a year yet. Lets see what he can do.
Since the face been revealed the game got real
I hear you, BL3
… and I’m not bailing on the man after one off season
I know the jury is still out and we can’t draw any conclusions for at least three years if you want to be fair, but this first rodeo could not have been any worse, we could not have taken it on the chin any harder … 32 million to spend, we talked about numerous elite free agents for months, and we essentially rolled a snake-eyes.
Hopefully we’ll roll some sevens in the future and Proko will turn his optimism into reality.
BTW, REGARDING THE INTERVIEW
NI
I know we have had some differences, but I really have to commend you on asking the tough questions. I know its not easy when you are talking to such a rich and powerful person, that can be a little intimidating, but you asked some really tough questions and asked them directly too, no beating around the bush, and I think you deserve some props.
One last thing before I hit the hay
I do agree with Proko that the goal should be to build a championship team and not just a good or even very good team.
Gina made this very same point last week, its easier to go from the outhouse to the penthouse than to go from 40 wins to the penthouse, because the losing teams have greater access to future impact players and impact players is what wins championships in the NBA, and I completely agreed with her.
So on that point I do agree with Proko’s philosophy.
I still wish we hadn’t struckout on PLAN A, but I do agree with his PLAN B approach.
Money did't matter
The three stooges already decided a long time ago that they will play together in Miami.
We ALL got played. Enough about blaming anyone, we all need to move on.
"Beat the Heat!"
by faNETicS on Jul 14, 2010 6:47 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Difference maker
Can any one tell me which player is the biggest difference maker(besides kobi-lbron-wade) that can diliver Nets to the championship? Also, do we have any chance of obtaining him in next 2 years?
I Would Say...
Melo, Durant, Deron Williams All Score and have the ability to take over a game. I could See all winning titles in the right environment.
The NETS are coming!
ChrisMannixSI
Sources tell SI the Nets are close to an agreement with Billy King to be the team’s general manager.
Ugh.... Horrible
I hope not… This guy will set us WAYYYYY Back… Well back to being a closet Nets fan. Thorn and his rather impressive resume (Man who Drafted Jordan and all that)
The NETS are coming!
He would be President, not GM. Marks would be GM.
They get along with Avery.
Just watched Cousins vs the lakers and this dude is the starter in Sac. His play is astounding to be a rookie. He is incredible. The passing this dude has is pg worthy. Look aways into the post. He reminds me of a huge Barkley. Him and Lopez would have been much better than Favors and Lopez. Cousins will be an allstar in 3yrs max. I am blown away.
Good for them
Maybe they’ll have another ROY.
Favors IMH is still the better fit for the Nets.
"Beat the Heat!"
by faNETicS on Jul 14, 2010 6:53 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Cousins will be a STONE COLD FOUR for Kings.
Thorn blew it.
Cousins fit in with Proky’s 5 year plan. Favors may fit in with years 12 and on, when Cousins slows down.
Summer league
Isn’t Cousins playing Center for their summer league team? I know some ppl are high on Cousins, but we really needed a defensive PF. A big weakness for the Nets since Kmart left is we haven’t been able to stop guard penetration. Lopez has already shown he can’t stop guards from getting into the lane. This causes the Defense to collapse inside to stop the guard and leaves 3 point shooters WIDE open, or it causes defenders to lose their assignment while trying to switch which still gives the other team easy layups/baskets. Cousins may have a nice offensive game, but I’d rather we stop penetration and reduce defensive breakdowns so we have more of a chance each game.
by TheMann2 on Jul 14, 2010 11:35 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Still a potential HEADCASE....
We as fans rarely get to experience first hand the questionable instances that contribute to the headcase labels. We get to see them simply perform on court.We see them on the court or on the field. It’s the front office, coaches and Owners that experience the headcase occurances.
The headcase label tends to manifest itself in 3 ways. Internally killing ones team with Horrible attitude and drama, Killing ones own career with Laziness aloofness or selfishness and finally disgracing ones franchise by ending up in some sort of police line up.
As for Cousins, if he had redflags that scared off a few people then it is what it is. I’m just sick of hearing about him. Wonder if we are so quick to speak on his GREAT skill when and if he implodes. 3 OTHER TEAMS PASSED on him. Are they talking about cousins on the Wizards, Sixers or T-Wolves boards?
If you’re so smitten Convert to being a Kings fan!!!
The NETS are coming!
Great interview rec'd
Mike’s very personable easy to like. A good owner no doubt.
As far as the superstar they’d go for my guess it’s a small forward or shooting guard.
Avery said when you have someone to make something happen in the last 5 seconds it makes his job easier. That’s how I remember it at least.
Melo fits the bill. Mike said they have this free agency and next year’s in his first press conference I believe.
Netsdaily
Is the great site in the world. Thanks for building such an awesome place.
billy king: WHAT?
under the circumstances the moves that have been made make sense once they decided to stupidly sit on their hands and not pursue boozer while the queen was making his decision. the 4 pick ups are logical and although they are paid and over did it in yrs for outlaw he could be a great find so okay there. for him not to over pay thorn is ridiculous. rod is great and has proven time and again that he can see things a few yrs out. as for billy king i just don’t get it. a GM has to be judged on his track record and king’s is poor to average at best. why not prichard. he did a tremendous job in building portland other than presi or thorn he is the best guy out there. billy king, c’mon. terrible move to hire a guy who has shown by his moves that he does not have a good handle on the present nor the future. as for the desire to get a PF, why? humphries is very serviceable, outlaw has played better there, and don’t you want favors to get at least 20 min a game there? would much rather hold onto the $ and use it as tool during the season to get a paul, melo, or anything that may come up.
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