The same day Deron Williams reached a buyout with the Brooklyn Nets, we learned that the point guard had a major conflict with Nets coach Lionel Hollins.
According to the New York Daily News’ Stefan Bondy, Williams had to be restrained from going after Hollins around the All-Star break:
Around AS break, sources say Deron Williams had to be physically restrained from going after Hollins during a meeting to air out grievances.
— Stefan Bondy (@SBondyNYDN) July 10, 2015
Williams had two years and $43.3 million remaining on his contract with the Nets but he was able to reach a buyout with them so he could sign with the Mavericks.
At one time considered one of the best point guards in the league along with Chris Paul, Williams struggled with injuries and system fits after signing with the Nets. He was openly mocked by fans for his struggles, and he even admitted a few years ago that he wasn’t the same player since leaving the Utah Jazz.
Between running Jerry Sloan out of town in Utah and this conflict with Hollins, Williams is not helping his reputation as a coach killer. Now it will be interesting to see how Williams handles the Mavericks after his past issues with Mark Cuban.
