The New Jersey Nets are interested in hiring Joe Dumars for the job of team president, a source close to the situation told the Free Press this morning.

In an e-mail, Dumars — the Pistons’ president of basketball operations — denied a report that he interviewed with the Nets over the weekend.

However, while there may not have been formal conversations, the source confirmed that the Nets are interested in Dumars, who took over the Pistons in 2000.

The Bergen (N.J.) Record, citing league sources, reported Sunday night that Dumars interviewed with the Nets on Saturday night to replace outgoing Nets president Rod Thorn.

The Record reported that Thorn, who has resigned effective July 15, and new coach Avery Johnson were in the meeting with Dumars.

Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti and New Orleans Hornets GM Jeff Bower are also candidates for the position, according to the Record.

Dumars, a Hall of Fame player for the Pistons (1985-99), led the franchise to the 2004 NBA title as team president.

But the Pistons' near future is suddenly uncertain. Owner Karen Davidson said June 24 that she expects the team to be sold by the start of next season.

Check back with Freep.com for more updates on this developing story.