Dallas Mavericks coach Avery Johnson was a backup point guard 13 years ago with the San Antonio Spurs.

That same year, current Detroit Pistons coach Larry Brown was the head coach and current Spurs head coach Greg Popovich was one of his assistants.

Now, 13 years later, both are facing off in this year's NBA Finals, which start Thursday.

That is a place where Avery Johnson feels his team is not far from that same place.

If he does not get there and win the title within 3 or 4 years, Johnson has no problem with owner Mark Cuban replacing him.

"I'm all right with that. I'm secure with that," said Johnson, whose contract has three guaranteed years with an option for a fourth season. "Mark and I have the same vision. It's a pretty good team that we have here, and I think that's the window of opportunity. I don't have a problem with that.