NET NOTES

Alonzo Mourning has been most vocal in his criticism of the Nets for their past moves and uncertain future while making his desire to play for a contender equally clear. Well, the Nets have tried to appease Mourning on all fronts.

According to sources, the Nets held discussions with Miami regarding a trade of Mourning for center Michael Doleac and forward Malik Allen, who had back surgery this week and is out for 6-8 weeks. The proposal was shot down as the Heat balked at picking up Mourning’s contract, which runs for three more seasons at $17.6 million.

Then yesterday, Net principal owner Bruce Ratner and team president Rod Thorn met with Mourning for what was called a “clear the air” meeting. Mourning ripped Ratner after the developer said he bought the team to move it to Brooklyn and not to win a title. Others maintained Ratner gave a broader answer.

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In addition to Jason Kidd, the Nets welcomed back assistant Brian Hill yesterday. Hill had been off since preseason to be with his adult daughter, Kim, who underwent a successful double lung transplant in Chapel Hill, N.C. Hill was back as Lawrence Frank’s top aide after his daughter was released from the hospital.

Kidd, a Bay Area product, on the Jason Giambi-Barry Bonds steroid controversy: “I don’t know what BALCO is . . . It’s just unfortunate, you have a talented guy like Giambi and these other guys. He’s done his misdeed, but it doesn’t change that he’s a great baseball player and a good person. He’s taken a lot of heat, but he’s man enough to come out and say he has [taken it]. You have to appreciate that. It will work itself out.”

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GM Ed Stefanski admits Nets are still looking at CBA and NBDL for possible help, especially with Zoran Planinic now expected out 8-10 weeks. (s,l)