The Nets' coaching staff is filling out as team has hired John Kuester from the world champion Detroit Pistons. One last spot remains, but Houston Rockets assistant coach Patrick Ewing turned it down yesterday. The Nets have former Orlando and Vancouver head coach Brian Hill as a holdover from last season. He remains Frank's top aide.

Larry Drew rejoined Byron Scott in New Orleans this week as an assistant coach and Don Newman's contract was not renewed, as he ended up on Gregg Popovich's staff in San Antonio.

Another ex-Knick, Bill Cartwright, is in the running to round out Frank's staff, along with Greg Ballard from Minnesota and former player Grant Long, who will help out in the summer league in Orlando starting today.