The Bulls believe Avery Johnson is not interested in becoming their next head coach and the team has no plans to further pursue him.
Johnson told Dan Patrick on WSCR Thursday that he had spoken to the Bulls last week but the former Dallas Mavericks coach indicated his options included taking time off. That is the message the Bulls have heard loud and clear from Johnson. The Mavs owe Johnson $12 million for the three seasons left on his Dallas contract until he takes another job.
Bulls general manager has scheduled interviews next week with coaches currently on the staffs of playoff teams, once the second round concludes, including Utah Jazz assistant Tyrone Corbin. Other assistants expected to be interviewed by Paxson include Boston’s Tom Thibodeau, Detroit’s Michael Curry, and Brian Shaw of the Los Angeles Lakers.