Today, head coach Avery Johnson paid the price for that.

December 25, 2012; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets head coach Avery Johnson looks on during the fourth quarter of an NBA game against the Boston Celtics at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Nets’ general manager Billy King announced Thursday afternoon that the organization has relived Johnson of his coaching duties.

Johnson, who was in the final year of his contract, was named Eastern Conference Coach of the Month for October and November following an 11-4 start. But the Nets have won just three of their last 13 games in December, forcing the team to go make the change.

The Nets, at 14-14, currently hold the eighth and final playoff spot in the East.

In addition, more than a week ago, point guard Deron Williams, who is having the worst season of his career, criticized Johnson’s isolation-heavy offensive system, saying he felt uncomfortable. When it comes to coach or player, we all know who the organization will side with.

P.J. Carlesimo will take over the interim coach.

What the Nets have learned is that New York is still a Knicks town and they have a ways to go to compete for “King of New York” honors.

Unfortunately, Johnson won’t be around to see that happen.

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