Nets formally request permission to interview Lionel Hollins

The Grizzlies said Lionel Hollins could talk with other teams, and now Brooklyn has come calling.

By Satchel Price Jun 3, 2013, 4:05pm EDT

Coming on the heels of an apparent breakdown in talks between the Memphis Grizzlies and Lionel Hollins, the Brooklyn Nets formally requested permission to speak with the embattled head coach Monday, according to Marc Stein of ESPN.com.

Following the ouster of interim coach P.J. Carlesimo in wake of a disappointing playoff effort, the Nets have been patient in identifying top candidates. That's partially a result of the high standard set by the team, which previously reached out to the likes of Phil Jackson while showing interest in his former protege, Pacers assistant Brian Shaw.

With three straight postseason appearances and an appearance in the Western Conference Finals this year, Hollins also provides an impressive resume. He couldn't quite lead the Grizzlies over the cusp, but few would argue the coach didn't do a strong job with the talent he was given.

Hollins just can't seem to get along with new Grizzlies management, though, and it appears that will ultimately lead to the two sides parting ways. Should the Nets make an offer -- one that would presumably be quite lucrative -- it wouldn't be surprising to see Hollins roaming the sidelines in Brooklyn next season.