NBA

Kidd wants to meet with Nets about coaching job

The greatest player in the Nets NBA history wants to become the 17th head coach in the franchise’s NBA history.

Hall of Famer in Waiting Jason Kidd, who announced his retirement one week ago, has asked to meet with Nets executives to discuss the possibility of succeeding P.J. Carlesimo as the team’s head coach.

“He does believe he is ready to be a head coach,” a league source familiar with Kidd’s thinking said while acknowledging the point guard’s request for a meeting to discuss his and the team’s coaching future.

While Kidd’s popularity could never be disputed his experience is another matter. Many believe he is a head coach waiting to happen because of his astounding court IQ. One executive in the league labeled the possibility of Kidd coaching as “fascinating.” Still, he would be considered a risk, despite his obvious strengths that support his candidacy.

“I could see him coaching or being a GM. He can run down every guy in the league. He has a terrific eye for talent,” Kidd’s former boss, ex-Nets president Rod Thorn said last week when Kidd retired after 19 seasons of brilliance, his last with the Knicks.

The Nets would welcome Kidd back into the fold – but maybe at not such a high profile position so quickly. One league source discussing the Nets’ possibilities stressed that Brian Shaw, the Pacers’ assistant who is among the strongest candidates for the job, has gained a wealth of experience on the bench while Kidd’s “learning was on the court.” He expressed the belief that Kidd must be considered a “long shot.”

Nets general manager Billy King maintained his policy of declining comment on any aspect of the Nets’ coaching hunt.

“I have said before I will not confirm or deny anything,” King said in a text message.

Kidd, a 10-time All-Star and a sure bet future first ballot Hall of Famer, is expected to meet with Nets executives sometime this week.

Shaw, though, is seen in some circles as the favored candidate based on his time under Phil Jackson on the Lakers bench plus the experience gained with the Pacers under Frank Vogel.

Kidd’s supporters point to Mark Jackson, another outstanding long time point guard, who made the jump to successful NBA head coach with the benefit of any assistant head coaching experience.