Nets Head Coach Jason Kidd Praises Joe Johnson On Visit With 'Joe And Evan'
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Nets head coach Jason Kidd joined WFAN hosts Joe Benigno and Evan Roberts ahead of the Nets' rivalry meeting with the Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Monday afternoon.
Kidd pegged swingman Joe Johnson as leader during the interview.
"Joe is very comfortable with being one of the leaders of this team," Kidd said. "He's been the one that's been consistent for us, and that's been huge. He's a guy that when he gets going, he's just as good anybody in this league."
The Nets have been hit by major injuries throughout the season. Kidd has noticed Johnson stepping up his game.
"Well, I think with the injuries -- Joe has stepped up," Kidd said. "Not just Joe, but Paul, KG and Shaun Livingston. They've all been playing at a high level. We need Joe to continue to do what he's been doing of late."
Kidd gave an update on the status of star guard Deron Williams.
"It's a game-time decision," Kidd said. "We'll see how he feels from practice yesterday."
The Nets head coach is impressed with Shaun Livingston, who has played an important role in Williams' absence. Williams last played on January 4. Kidd expects Livingston and Williams to team up in the backcourt when Williams returns.
"One we get Deron back into the fold, those two will be out there playing side-by-side," Kidd said.
Kidd said the Nets will "work (Williams) back into the fold" once he's healthy.
The Nets have won six of seven games. They'll be looking to keep their strong run going on Monday at MSG.
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