While most may consider the Nets to be in the midst of a rebuilding effort after losing the likes of Kenyon Martin, Kerry Kittles and Lucious Harris amongst others with little coming back in return, do not count on Nets coach Lawrence Frank to have anything to do with it.

"I read and hear what's said, (but) we are not rebuilding -- once you rebuild, it's an excuse to lose," Frank said yesterday in his pre-camp meeting with reporters.

"Everyone is criticizing our talent. But what is talent? Every team has physical talent. Being a good teammate, understanding your role, competing every single night, taking good shots, playing with all your heart, playing through nagging injuries are talents. That's what we have to do. Regardless of expectations and what the roster looks like, we feel if we play Nets' basketball we're going to win games."

Speaking of talent Nets GM Ed Stefanski said the team has hit a wall in talks with Travis Best, who is looking for guaranteed money.

There is also talk of the Nets claiming they have a two-year extension awaiting Frank's signature, but someone close to the coach claims no such offer exists.