The Brooklyn Nets are expected to pursue Tom Thibodeau as head coach once they hire a new general manager.

The Nets also have been linked strongly to John Calipari, largely because of Calipari's strong ties to Brooklyn CEO Brett Yormark, but there is a growing sense in league circles that team owner Mikhail Prokhorov wants to hire established NBA names with considerable experience in the league.

Tony Brown is currently serving as the Nets' interim coach.

Thibodeau was fired by the Bulls after the playoffs last season.