Johnson still wants to talk with Bulls
Former Dallas Mavericks coach Avery Johnson still is interested in the Bulls' vacant position and expects to hold a formal interview with general manager John Paxson sometime in the future.
Reports last week suggested the Bulls had eliminated Johnson as a candidate, but that was never true. The Bulls were under the impression that Johnson might choose to focus on broadcasting next season, but they didn't lose interest.
During a Friday appearance on WMVP 1000-AM, Johnson said his broadcast plans coincided with the Bulls' decision to offer the job to ex-Phoenix coach Mike D'Antoni. But when D'Antoni opted to join the New York Knicks, Johnson's outlook shifted back to coaching.
"Yes, I'm interested," Johnson said. "But at the same time, they're going to go through their interview process and … it's whatever's the best fit for John, what's the best fit for Mr. (Jerry) Reinsdorf, what's the best fit for the organization.
"We'll talk to them at some point. As a matter of fact I'm going to have a conversation (Friday), I think, with John."
Johnson carries impressive credentials. After going 194-70 in three-plus seasons with the Mavericks, his winning percentage of .735 is the highest of any coach in NBA history with at least 250 games. He also coached Dallas to the Finals in 2006.
A point guard during his 16 NBA seasons, it would seem logical that he'd prefer the Bulls choose Derrick Rose with the first pick of the draft. But Friday he refused to reveal his position.
"I pretty much know what I would do right now, but I'm not going to say which one I would take," he said. "If they were interested in doing something, I would definitely let my opinion be made known at that particular time. But I think they are in a great spot. It's not really rocket science."
Paxson is finishing up a busy week of interviews. He spoke Friday to Utah part-time coach Jeff Hornacek, a LaGrange native, and Sacramento assistant Chuck Person is expected to visit today.
Earlier this week Paxson met with Jazz assistant Tyrone Corbin and former Minnesota coach Dwane Casey. The scene will then shift to Orlando as the NBA holds its annual predraft camp next week from Tuesday through Friday.
Among those still remaining on the Bulls' interview wish list are former Nuggets head coach and Mount Prospect native Jeff Bzdelik, along with Houston assistant Elston Turner. Former Spurs, Sixers and Cavs head coach John Lucas reportedly is a candidate, as is injured Cleveland point guard Eric Snow.
When Boston assistant Tom Thibodeau and Detroit assistant Michael Curry are finished with the playoffs, Paxson will look to speak with them. He already has met with Lakers assistants Brian Shaw and Kurt Rambis.