Jeff Hornacek in Nets camp as observer

You could call it a poke in the eye, the Nets inviting Jeff Hornacek to sit in on their practices. After all, the former Jazz great was unceremoniously fired by the Knicks just after the team plane touched down at Westchester Airport following New York’s final game. Now, he’s seen across the river, enjoying his former arch-rival’s training camp.

The Nets tried to downplay it. It’s nothing official, Kenny Atkinson told the media Wednesday. (And since the Knicks still owe Hornacek $5 million, he doesn’t need the money.)

“Yeah, a good friend of mine. You’ll see different guys come through here watching us practice,” said Atkinson, no tongue in cheek visible.

In fact, Hornacek will be with the Nets through camp and will “probably come from time to time” through the season, Atkinson disclosed.

• Jeff Hornacek will be with the Nets during camp - Brian Lewis - New York Post