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Meanwhile, Back at the PNY Center

Not all the Nets focus has been on Carmelo Anthony.  With Thursday's Open Practice and Sunday's first preseason game (vs. Maccabi Haifa) looming, Avery Johnson seemed happy with his team's progress. 

Troy Murphy again stayed out of contact drills, Ben Couch reports. Johnson indicated Murphy may not play this week, noting that a groin strain, if exacerbated, can lead to longer stays on the bench. He also surprised reporters by saying  he’d be comfortable starting Kris Humphries in Murphy’s place.  Humphries, who'd been mentioned in earlier trade rumors, is one of the surprises of cam.  Johnson also praised rookie forward Derrick Favors for not making defensive mistakes, crediting assistant coach Popeye Jones for his behind-the-scenes work.

Jordan Farmar described his backcourt mate, Devin Harris, as playing hard.  "In practice, he’s been leading the team in charges, he’s been diving on the floor for balls, he’s been penetrating. We talked today after practice about certain situations. Good quartertback-coach relationship."