Tim Floyd, hired Monday as the Hornets' coach, has not disclosed whom he plans to pursue as assistants, but former Cleveland Cavaliers coach John Lucas expressed an interest in the job Tuesday.

Lucas said he wants an opportunity to return to the NBA because of his love of the game, and he believes Floyd is a good coach.


"If they are willing to talk, I'm willing to listen," Lucas said when contacted at his Houston-area home. "I love the game."

Floyd said Tuesday that he hasn't begun the search for assistants.

"It's too early right now," Floyd said.

Lucas, who was fired by the Cavaliers in January with a year left on his contract, was replaced by interim coach Keith Smart after the team struggled to an 8-34 record in his second season.