Avery Johnson Joins Deron Williams For Birthday Dinner

If being a birthday dinner guest is an indication of Deron Williams’ intentions, then the Brooklyn Nets just might keep the coveted free-agent point guard.

Among Williams’ small 28th birthday gathering in New York was Nets coach Avery Johnson. Nets fans are grasping any sign they can to feel good about Williams’ impending decision on where he will play next season. He is the prize free agent and reportedly has narrowed his choices down to Brooklyn, where the New Jersey Nets will move next season, or the Dallas Mavericks, who reside in his hometown.

Williams made a flash appearance at Nets general manager Billy King’s news conference this morning at the team’s practice facility in New Jersey. He did not address the media; he smiled and left.

King said he is not concerned about Mark Cuban attempting to court Williams to Dallas.

“I’ve never wavered,” King said. “I’m not overconfident. I feel good.”

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