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 after a season with the Knicks, 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.
The story of Kidd’s interest in the Nets job was first reported by Yahoo.
Though Kidd’s popularity cannot be disputed, his experience is another matter. Many believe he is a future head coach because of his astounding court IQ. One executive in the league labeled the possibility of Kidd coaching as “fascinating.” Still, as a complete novice, 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, former Nets president Rod Thorn said last week when Kidd retired after 19 seasons of brilliance.
The Nets would welcome Kidd back into the fold — but maybe not at such a high-profile position so quickly. One league source discussing the Nets’ possibilities stressed 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.” The source expressed the belief Kidd must be considered a “long shot.”
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 favorite 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 longtime point guard, who made the jump to successful NBA head coach with the Warriors without the benefit of any assistant coaching experience.
“The biggest part of success is your roster and if players cooperate with your beliefs,’’ Jeff Van Gundy said. “Kidd had a high basketball IQ, but you never know how it will translate. There’s a great chance it will translate well. It’s all a gamble. But if Jason wants to be a head coach, I’d be surprised if eventually he wasn’t very good.’’
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich also offered an endorsement. The Spurs could offer Kidd an assistant’s position this summer with Mike Budenholzer leaving for Atlanta.
“When you’ve played in the league as long as Jason has and played for a number of coaches, he’s pretty much seen everything,’’ Popovich said. “So he does have experience. He certainly has the intuitive skills to know what’s going on out there. He’s got an opportunity to be really, really good at it.’’
Van Gundy, the former Knicks coach, has also been linked to the Nets job, but it does not appear he’s an active candidate.
“I have a great job and that’s a great job,’’ said Van Gundy, who is broadcasting the NBA Finals. “If ever there’s a fit for me and my ideals, I’d be interested. If not, I’m good.’’
fred.kerber@nypost.com