The Minnesota Timberwolves will interview their third head coach candidate Saturday with Pres. of Operations David Kahn & Owner Glen Taylor.  Another elderly coaching candidate: Rick Adelman will get an interview.

Most are considering Rick Adelman a ‘dream hire’ for the Timberwolves that could very well be the answer to all their problems.

Rick Adelman, 65, began in the NBA as a player when he was selected in the 7th round of the 1968 NBA Draft—79th overall.  He spent just six season in the League before retiring in 1975, but that was only the beginning for Adelman.  In 1988 he returned to the NBA as a head coach for the Portland Trailblazers he was there from 88-93, from 1995-97 he coached the Golden State Warriors, from 1999-2006 he was the head coach of the Sacramento Kings and most recently from 2007-2011 he was the head coach of the Houston Rockets, before being ‘let go’ earlier this summer—and replaced by former Wolves GM & Head Coach—Kevin McHale.

In his 20 year coaching career, Adelman has amassed a 945-616 record (.605 winning percentage).

In my opinion this would definitely be the ideal hire for the Timberwolves, the other VERY intriguing candidate seems to be Don Nelson.  My only concern with this process is that with the Wolves still owing Rambis over $4M, is owner Glen Taylor willing to shell out some cash to get a great head coach, or are we going to start all over again with  bargain coach that’ll get the Wolves nowhere….?

That’s all for now, remember to check daily for all your TWolves news, information & updates—EVEN THROUGH THE LOCKOUT—though it will likely be just coaching candidate updates :)  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

The Minnesota Timberwolves are about to interview their third NBA head coaching candidate.  

Bernie Bickerstaff follows interviews of Terry Porter & Mike Woodson.

The Portland Trailblazers assistant will interview on Friday with President of Operations David Kahn & Owner Glen Taylor.

Bernie Bickerstaff is the father of former Timberwolves assistant J.B. Bickerstaff—who recently joined the coaching staff in Houston with former Wolves GM & Head Coach Kevin McHale.

Bernie is 67 years old and has ben a head coach with Seattle, Denver, Washington & Charlotte.  He last coached for the Bobcat in 2007 when the team went 33-49.  Bernie’s overall record stands at 415-517 in 13 seasons—with a .445 winning percentage.  Bernie also has experience as a General Manager and a Team President.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are expected to interview Don Nelson as well as a number of other candidates early next week.

That’s all for now, remember to check back daily for all your up-to-date TWolves news, information & updates all year round!  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

The Minnesota Timberwolves interviewed Terry Porter earlier this week (the full story on that can be found in the previous post(s)), but today David Kahn and owner Glen Taylor sat down with Mike Woodson as a potential Wolves head coach candidate.

As Kahn & Taylor sat down with Woodson, eleven of the Minnesota Timberwolves employees (on the business side of things) were laid off according to a report from the Associated Press.  Many of the 11 employees were a part of the sales department and AP also reports that teams such as Charlotte among others, have begun to do the same amidst the NBA lockout.

Back to Mike Woodson, though.  Mike Woodson is the former Atlanta Hawks head coach.  Before all that however, Mike Woodson was an NBA player spending 11 seasons in the Association.  He was selected 12th overall in the 1980 NBA Draft to the New York Knicks he played with the Knicks from 80-81, with the Nets from 81-82, with the Kings from 82-86, the Clippers 86-88, 88-91 with the Rockets and just 1991 with the Cavaliers.  

He’s only had the one head coaching job—with the Atlanta Hawks from 2004-2010.  His career coaching records stands at 206-286.

Woodson’s defensive mindset is certainly what the Timberwolves need in order to become the outstanding team they’re capable of being, but David Kahn has been adamant that he wants a coach with a real up-tempo style of playing to get Ricky Rubio and all these young athletic guys up and down the court in a hurry.—Most would disagree that this is what the TWolves should be doing—I agree they should play a little more uptempo, but if that’s the case, they need to have an incredibly strong D, ‘run n gun’ only gets you so far!

Woodson was fired (or rather not resigned) before last season (and replaced by then assistant coach Larry Drew) after the Atlanta Hawks were eliminated from the playoffs by the Orlando Magic in an 0-4 sweep.

Woodson is also one of the last two candidates for the Detroit Pistons job—taking over for John Kuester who was fired a month or so ago (Boston assistant and former Nets head coach—Lawrence Frank is the ‘other candidate’).

That’s all for now, stay tuned for all your TWolves news, information & updates even through the lockout!  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

The Minnesota Timberwolves finally fired Kurt Rambis and as such, they’ve begun the search for a new head coach—preferably someone with a ‘fast break gameplan’.

The search is underway and the Wolves have interview their first candidate: Terry Porter.

Terry Porter—a former player, played 17 seasons in the NBA—the former 24th overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, he went to the Portland Trailblazers till 1995.  From 1995-98 he played for none other than the Minnesota Timberwolves, 1998-99 for the Miami Heat and his final years from 1999-2002 with the San Antonio Spurs.

Also on Porter’s resume—a 2-time NBA all-star in 1991 & 1993 as well as the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award in 1993.  His career statistics in his 17-year career include: 15,586 points, 3,872 rebounds and 7,160 assists.

Porter is also experienced on the pine as well.  His coaching career includes stops as a head coach for the Milwaukee Bucks from 2003-05 and with the Phoenix Suns from 2008-09.  His overall record in those three years is 99-116 (.460).

Porter’s skills and experience as a point guard make Porter an ideal fit for the Timberwolves who just added point guard Ricky Rubio as the Wolves.  According to President of Operations: David Kahn, will look to ‘run’ this season, which would obviously contradict Porter’s hard nosed-defensive mindset (which is something that many (including myself) believe the Wolves REALLY NEED).

Other candidates for the head coaching job includes: Don Nelson, Rick Adelman & Bernie Bickerstaff as well as Memphis assistant: Dave Joerger.  None of which have gotten interviews—though according to the Star Tribune Don Nelson talked with David Kahn on the phone for over 40 minutes and they’ll talk again.

That’s all for now, as the lockout goes on and the coaching search moves forward stay tuned all year round for the up-to-date TWolves news, information and updates—lockout or not!  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

Yesterday the Minnesota Timberwolves decided to let go there coach of two years: Kurt Rambis after a tumultuous two seasons that resulted in a 32-132 record. 

As such, the Timberwolves are again on the coaching hunt and names have begun to surface recently.

The first of course being Bernie Bickerstaff.  We’ve had a few different stories on Bernie, but that idea can basically be scrapped.  The idea was that the Wolves would hire Bernie and keep his son J.B. (already an assistant in Minnesota), in hopes that after a few years Bernie would throw the reins to his son, however news broke today that J.B. Bickerstaff had accepted an assistant coaching job with the Houston Rockets under Kevin McHale.

Now, yet another name has surfaced.  Don Nelson-formerly of the Golden State Warriors (before he was basically forced out, then they hired Keith Smart—fired him this summer and now analyst Mark Jackson is the new Warriors head coach).  Don Nelson is reportedly showing interest in this Timberwolves roster that is loaded with young talent.  There are a few big questions on Don Nelson.  1.) Is he the right fit?  Anyone who has won the most games as a coach in NBA history should be the right fit for any team…right?  Well, the bigger question is—at 71 years of age, is Nelson the right coach for such a young inexperienced team?  2.) How much money is Nelson going to demand?  Glen Taylor is already having to shell out the remaining salary on the remaining 2 years of Rambis’ contract, so the thought is—they’ll likely look for a cheaper option…unfortunately!

Nelson became the most winningest coach in NBA history late in the 09-10 season and has an overall record of 1,335-1,063 (.557) as he’s coached in Milwaukee, New York, Dallas and of course Golden State—which links him to two current Minnesota players—Anthony Tolliver & Anthony Randolph who both spent a year with Nelson before he was let go.

Of course Don Nelson isn’t the only veteran coach the Timberwolves could/should look into—Rick Adelman (formerly of the Rockets), Larry Brown (formerly of the Charlotte Bobcats—was fired earlier in the 2010-11 season) and Jerry Sloan (formerly of the Utah Jazz and currently retired in the midst of the 2010-11 season). 

The sad truth is that David Kahn will make a move that he’ll love as he leaves the entire organization and fan base left, scratching our heads.  Beaming with pride he’ll introduce him and puzzled we’ll continue to question why Glen Taylor lets him call the shots…

That’s all for now, the coaching list is likely to grow in the coming weeks and we’ll be here to bring you all the updates as it’s likely there won’t be much else TWolves news to discuss.  Thanks for reading and check back daily for all TWolves news and updates.  GO WOLVES!

Former GM and head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves-Kevin McHale was hired as the new Houston Rockets head coach-replacing Rick Adelman.  McHale has now begun filling out the remaining assistant coaching spots.

Kelvin Sampson (former Milwaukee Bucks assistant) and J.B. Bickerstaff (former Minnesota Timberwolves assistant).

Kurt Rambis was officially fired earlier today and the Timberwolves have already begun to search for replacements—J.B. & Kelvin were both early candidates for the head coaching gig, but it doesn’t seem likely now.  Kelvin was also a candidate for the Houston job before Kevin was hired, he was also being considered for the Detroit head coaching job.

The Minnesota Timberwolves were rumored to be looking to interview current Portland assistant—Bernie Bickerstaff, for the Timberwolves head coaching gig, then retaining J.B. as the main Timberwolves assistant—the idea being that after a year or two, J.B. could take over as the head coach of Minnesota from his father.

The main news here is: You can take two solid coaches from the list of potential candidates for Minnesota.

That’s all for now.  Thanks for reading and remember to check daily for news, updates and information on your Minnesota Timberwolves.  GO WOLVES!

On April 12th 2011, Jerry Zgoda of the Star Tribune made Wolves President of Operations David Kahn—a checklist of what he (Zgoda) feels need to be done this offseason for the Wolves to be successful in the future.  Below you can find the original link to the article, but today we’re going to look at Zgoda’s five checkpoints and see how David Kahn has done/is doing.

http://www.startribune.com/sports/wolves/119742374.html

1. DETERMINE COACH KURT RAMBIS’ FUTURE—Well, let’s see, this article was written almost 4 months ago and we still do have affirmation on the future of Rambis.  However—the situation with Rambis is, the Wolves are keeping him through the lockout, simply because it’ll be much cheaper than firing Kurt—negotiating a buyout—and hiring a new coach.  David Kahn, however, should’ve had this situation resolved in the month of April OR May!  It’s dragged on, and it’ll keep dragging on! (0/1)
2. SIGN RICKY RUBIO—David Kahn finally got his man.  After two years of visits, persuasion and coaxing, Ricky Rubio is finally going to play for the Minnesota Timberwolves and he’s certainly created a lot of hype and buzz—but can he live up to those expectations?  It may take a while to find out as the NBA Lockout could wipe out part of OR the entire NBA season!  (1/2)
3. PURSUE VETERAN LEADERSHIP—Zgoda mentions the Wolves trying to acquire Steve Nash from the Phoenix Suns.  I think we know the Suns aren’t going to trade their former MVP for anyone on the Wolves roster and he’s extremely ‘tight’ in that organization, if he wants out—the Suns are going to ask him where he’d be willing to go—guaranteed Minnesota wouldn’t be on that short list.  However, with the Lockout, free agency hasn’t been able to begin and as such it makes it quite difficult for the Wolves to pursue veterans for their squad with that going on.  However, the Wolves have acquired one new piece.  Big man Brad Miller was sent to Minnesota in a draft night deal that sent Jonny Flynn to Houston.  Kahn did acquire on veteran, however, this isn’t the all-star center he was back in his Sac-Town days and he’s nearing the end of his career, with some injuries the past few, I’ll go out on a limb here and say he won’t contribute much. (1.25/3)
4. WAIT—Zgoda is pleading for Kahn to wait to sign Kevin Love to an extension until after a new labor agreement is reached.  Well, good news, the labor agreement is being negotiated right now and it’d be impossible for the Wolves to offer Love an extension—so Kahn wins this one, however it’ll be a matter of how much he pays Love—what he’s offered, when it comes time.  Zgoda also says WAIT on offering Anthony Randolph and Michael Beasley extensions, until they get another year to ‘prove their worth’.  (2.25/4)
5. SAY GOODBYE—to PG Jonny Flynn.  Zgoda—AND EVERYONE ELSE—knew that Jonny Flynn wouldn’t be back with Minnesota as they’ve been looking to trade him ever since the weeks leading up to the NBA Trade Deadline, earlier this year.  Jonny Flynn has been traded to the Houston Rockets and there’s a chance he may be traded again (once the new labor agreement is negotiated).  (3.25/5)

Not to bad Mr. Kahn 3.25/5 and we still have plenty of offseason left.  However, the way you’ve handled this coaching decision and the way you’ve treated Kurt Rambis (no matter how many games we lost with him the last two seasons) is simply inexcusable!  Many people would say—too bad Kahn won’t fire himself, another couple slipups like this and hopefully Glen Taylor will show him the door.  Until then, we’re stuck with him (really though, the ONLY reason I don’t like him is because of the way he’s dealt with Kurt Rambis—I can’t imagine having a guy like that (someone who loves to have his “hand on the button”) be my boss).

Thanks for reading and remember to stay tuned all year round for your up-to-date TWolves news, information and updates.  GO WOLVES!

The heads of Minnesota TWolves fans are still spinning as they attempt to decipher who exactly the Wolves drafted and who will be playing in a TWolves uniform next season. I’ll do my best to clear the air, if anyone is still left dazed and confused.

First off, the easy one, with the #2 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft the Minnesota Timberwolves selected Arizona forward Derrick Williams. Williams will be thrown in with the bevy of forwards the Wolves already posses—Michael Beasley, Martell Webster, Wesley Johnson, Lazar Hayward, Kevin Love, Anthony Randolph & Anthony Tolliver. Tonight, David Kahn made clear to the media that Derrick Williams will be playing for the Wolves next season and that Michael Beasley ‘supported’ the Wolves selecting Williams. With that being said, Williams could still be moved for a GREAT offer, but it would take some/a special player(s) in return. Furthermore, Michael Beasley could be on the move, though David Kahn stated that Beasley isn’t going anywhere…time will tell.

After the #2 pick things got INCREDIBLY murky for the Wolves.

The next pick Minnesota had was #20 which they acquired before the draft via the Memphis Grizzlies. With the 20th overall pick, the TWolves selected Donatas Motiejunas…though he won’t be a Minnesota Timberwolf. The Minnesota Timberwolves then turned around and sold his rights to Houston, along with Jonny Flynn for Rockets big man-Brad Miller as well as the 23rd & 57th pick(s).

That’s right Wolves fans, Jonny Flynn has played his last game for the Minnesota Timberwolves—though, he may not even play for his new team: the Houston Rockets, as they’re reportedly already looking to move Flynn (the idea being that they shed Miller’s $9M contract for Flynn’s $3M contract).

Then came the Wolves 23rd pick, which they had just acquired from the Rockets. With the 23rd overall pick, the Minnesota Timberwolves selected…Nikola Mirotic…for the Chicago Bulls! That’s right, Mirotic’s rights were promptly sent to the Bulls for their 28th & 43rd overall picks in the draft.

With that, the Wolves’ next pick was at 28 where they selected…Norris Cole…for the Miami Heat! AGAIN, the Wolves moved the pick to Miami and in return, received the 31st overall pick in the draft as well as a future 2nd rounder and cash considerations. How did the Heat have the 31st pick in the draft you may ask?! Oh, that’s right, it was sent to Miami from Minnesota in the Michael Beasley deal!

All right, the Wolves next pick was then the 31st overall. If you haven’t realized yet, the Wolves have now selected at 2, 20, 23 & 28 and so far have just new rookie on their roster: #2 overall pick: Derrick Williams! With the 31st overall pick, the TWolves selected…Bojan Bogdanovic…for the New Jersey Nets! Is anyone else sensing a pattern? That’s right, the Wolves selected this pick for the New Jersey Nets and in return received…cash considerations.

At this point you may be wondering: “Why do the Wolves keep trading away all their picks for $.” Well, if you’d been on Twitter, the rumor circulating would’ve been, that, since Kurt Rambis had been fired, the Wolves had to finance his buyout because the minority owners didn’t want to pay for it! David Kahn quickly refuted those rumors while talking to the media, but because most fans refer to Kahn as a “Little Weasel”, does that make you want to trust him? Does the way he dragged out the Rambis situation and treated Kurt extremely unprofessionally, make you want to trust him?

Anyway, back to the draft. The Wolves then selected 43rd. This was a pick acquired from Chicago via the Utah Jazz, the Minnesota Timberwolves selected UCLA guard Malcolm Lee…for the…Minnesota Timberwolves. Wait, is that right?…THAT’S RIGHT! David Kahn took and intends to keep Malcolm Lee.

Finally, with the last pick in the draft for the Minnesota Timberwolves the Wolves had the 57th pick. This was acquired in an alternate trade. The Blazers and the Mavericks swapped some picks/players-Rudy Fernandez went to Dallas, the Blazers got the 57th pick and the 26th pick (Jordan Hamilton). Then they sent Hamilton along with Andre Miller to the Nuggets for point guard Raymond Felton! All Wolves fans need to know, we got the 57th pick and with it…Tanguy Ngombo a forward from Qatar. Pete Philo—a scout for the Wolves reported has seen him play more than once and is very high on him. Though Ngombo will stay overseas for a year or two. I, myself have never heard of him, so I had to do a bit of research and rather than regurgitate what I found, follow the link below for an excellent story as well as video highlights of the Wolves’ newest international player.

http://www.asiabasketballupdate.com/1/post/2011/06/targuy-ngombo-qatars-nba-hopeful.html

A small sidenote: the trades that I’ve discussed above are those pertaining to the Minnesota Timberwolves, there were more trades that took place, but I’ve only listed the ones that are relevant to Minnesota!

Well, hopefully we’ve helped to clear the air! I’ll be around as always providing you with daily updates on TWolves news & information. Any questions, comments or concerns about tonight’s draft or anything TWolves feel free to message me or find me on Twitter: @donnycersado27 for clarification. Thanks for reading, GO WOLVES and GOOD NIGHT!

Stay with us all night as we bring you the 2011 NBA Draft updates.  Updated every minute!!!

ROUND ONE

#1 Cleveland Cavaliers (via Los Angeles Clippers)

-Kyrie Irving, G, Duke

#2 Minnesota Timberwolves

-Derrick Williams, F, Arizona

#3 Utah Jazz (via New Jersey Nets)

-Enes Kanter, C, Turkey/Kentucky

#4 Cleveland Cavaliers

-Tristan Thompson, F, Texas

#5 Toronto Raptors

-Jonas Valanciunas, C, Lithuania

#6 Washington Wizards

-Jan Vesely, F, Czech Republic

#7 Sacramento Kings (traded to Charlotte Bobcats)

-Bismack Biyombo, F-C, Congo

#8 Detroit Pistons

-Brandon Knight, G, Kentucky

#9 Charlotte Bobcats

-Kemba Walker, G, Connecticut

#10 Milwaukee Bucks (traded to Sacramento)

-Jimmer Fredette, G, BYU

#11 Golden State Warriors

-Klay Thompson, G, Washington State

#12 Utah Jazz

-Alec Burks, G, Colorado

#13 Phoenix Suns

-Markieff Morris, F, Kansas

#14 Houston Rockets

-Marcus Morris, F, Kansas

#15 Indiana Pacers

-Kawhi Leonard, F, San Diego State

#16 Philadelphia 76ers

-Nikola Vucevic, F, USC

#17 New York Knicks

-Iman Shumpert, G, Georgia Tech

#18 Washington Wizards (via Atlanta Hawks)

-Chris Singleton, F, Florida State

#19 Charlotte Bobcats (via New Orleans Hornets) (traded to Milwaukee)

-Tobias Harris, F, Tennessee

#20 Minnesota Timberwolves (via Memphis Grizzlies) (traded to Houston Rockets)

-Donatas Motiejunas, F, Lithuania

#21 Portland Trailblazers

-Nolan Smith, G, Duke

#22 Denver Nuggets

-Kenneth Faried, F, Morehead  State

#23 Houston Rockets (via Orlando Magic) (traded to Minnesota, then moved to Chicago)

-Nikola Mirotic, F, Spain

#24 Oklahoma City Thunder

-Reggie Jackson, G, Boston College

#25 Boston Celtics (traded to New Jersey Nets)

-Marshon Brooks, G, Providence

#26 Dallas Mavericks

-Jordan Hamilton, F, Texas

#27 New Jersey Nets (via Los Angeles Lakers) (traded to Boston)

-JaJuan Johnson, F ,Purdue

#28 Chicago Bulls (via Miami Heat) (traded to Minnesota) (then to Miami)

-Norris Cole, G, Cleveland State

#29 San Antonio Spurs

-Cory Joseph, G, Texas

#30 Chicago Bulls

-Jimmy Butler, F, Marquette

ROUND TWO

#31 Miami Heat (via Minnesota Timberwolves) (traded back to Minnesota) (then traded to New Jersey for cash)

-Bojan Bogdanovic, G, Croatia

#32 Cleveland Cavaliers

-Justin Harper, F, Richmond

#33 Detroit Pistons (via Toronto Raptors)

-Kyle Singler, F, Duke

#34 Washington Wizards

-Shelvin Mack, G, Butler

#35 Sacramento Kings

-Tyler Honeycutt, F, UCLA

#36 New Jersey Nets

-Jordan Williams, F, Maryland

#37 Los Angeles Clippers (via Detroit Pistons)

-Trey Thompkins, F, Georgia

#38 Houston Rockets (via Los Angeles Clippers)

-Chandler Parsons, F, Florida

#39 Charlotte Bobcats

-Jeremy Tyler, C, San Diego/Japan

#40 Milwaukee Bucks

-Jon Leuer, F , Wisconsin

#41 Los Angeles Lakers (from Golden State via New Jersey Nets)

-Darius Morris, G , Michigan

#42 Indiana Pacers (traded to San Antonio Spurs)

-Davis Bertans, F , Latvia 

#43 Chicago Bulls (via Utah Jazz) (traded to Minnesota)

-Malcolm Lee, G , UCLA

#44 Golden State Warriors (from Phoenix via Chicago Bulls)

-Charles Jenkins, G, Hofstra

#45 New Orleans Hornets (sold to New York for $750K)

-Josh Harrelson, C, Kentucky

#46 Los Angeles Lakers (from New York Knicks)

-Andrew Goudelock, F, College of Charleston

#47 Los Angeles Clippers (from Houston Rockets)

-Travis Leslie, G, Georgia 

#48 Atlanta Hawks

-Keith Benson, C, Oakland

#49 Memphis Grizzlies

-Josh Selby, G, Kansas

#50 Philadelphia 76ers (from New Orleans Hornets)

-Lavoy Allen, F, Temple University

#51 Portland Trailblazers

-John Diebler, G, Ohio State

#52 Detroit Pistons

-Vernon Macklin, F, Florida

#53 Orlando Magic

-DeAndre Liggins, G, Kentucky

#54 Cleveland Cavaliers (from Oklahoma City via Miami Heat)

-Milan Macvan, F, Serbia

#55 Boston Celtics

-E’Twaun Moore, G, Purdue

#56  Los Angeles Lakers

-Chukwudiebere Maduabum, F, Bakersfield (NBDL)

#57 Dallas Mavericks (traded to Portland) (then traded to Minnesota)

-Tanguy Ngombo, F, Qatar

#58 Los Angeles Lakers (from Miami Heat)

-Ater Majok, F, Sudan

#59 San Antonio Spurs

-Adam Hanga, G, Hungary

#60 Sacramento Kings (from Chicago Bulls via Milwaukee Bucks)

-Isaiah Thomas, G, Washington

UPDATE: Another candidate that’s being thrown out their is Portland assistant Bernie Bickerstaff—the father of current Wolves assistant J.B. Bickerstaff.  The idea being J.B. would take over in a couple years with help from his father. 

UPDATE: Lorenzo Romar reportedly didn’t want to speak to the Wolves about the job when asked about it.  ”I love Seattle.  My wife loves Seattle and it’s a place that when we first got there—even though some were skeptical—I thought it was a place where we could be successful.  It’s awkward, maybe, more than flattering.  For one, there is a current coach there.  So that makes it awkward.”  Romar told the Seattle Times—obviously before word of Rambis’ firing ‘broke’.

According to Yahoo! Sports, league sources have said: David Kahn has decided to fire head coach Kurt Rambis!

It’s expected Kahn will not make this official until after tomorrow’s NBA Draft, however, he’s apparently already begun looking at replacements.

One such candidate is apparently: Lorenzo Romar (coach from University of Washington).  However, the Wolves are behind after numerous other teams have hired replacements, it may be slim pickings-LA Lakers: Mike Brown, Raptors: Dwayne Casey (a coach the Wolves were VERY interested in having return), Warriors: Mark Jackson, Rockets: Kevin McHale (Kahn wouldn’t be dumb enough to re-hire him after firing him 2 years ago…right?), Indiana making Frank Vogel their official coach and also, with the Pistons still looking at coaches like Kelvin Sampson, Mike Woodson & Lawrence Frank.

I would really like to see the Wolves take careful looks at such candidates as: Kelvin Sampson, Lawrence Frank, Mike Woodson, Patrick Ewing, Sam Mitchell and/or Mike Budenholzer.  Information on all these coaches can be found within the link at the bottom of this post.

Kahn has wanted Rambis to be more of a communicator with the team as well as with him and apparently their relationship had seriously deteriorated this past year.  Kahn also wanted Rambis to change his offensive & defensive systems, giving the Wolves a more open-court system for their new point guard Ricky Rubio, to roam free in, rather than the complex triangle—that reportedly, not all the players even learned—AFTER TWO YEARS!  His uneasy relationship with Kevin Love—the Wolves current ‘face of the franchise’ doesn’t help his cause either.  Neither did the 32-132 record!

As stated before, Kahn isn’t expected to make this official until after tomorrow’s draft, but it looks as though Kurt Rambis’ time in Minny has come to an end.

ALSO!!!  If you haven’t seen the April 23rd post on this site of possible coaching options for the Wolves, you should definitely check it out, link is down below (of course a few of those names have found destinations already).

http://minnesotatimberwolves.tumblr.com/post/4851796107/possible-coaching-options-for-the-wolves

That’s all for now, get ready for tomorrow’s draft as we’ll have up-to-the-minute updates throughout the night.  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

UPDATE (Sunday June 5, 2011 @1:55pmCT) A report from Sports Illustrated has the two teams most interested in Flynn as the Sacramento Kings and the Toronto Raptors.

UPDATE (Friday June 3, 2011 @2:05amCT).  According to a report, there are a few other teams, also interested in Flynn.  Toronto does seem like the likeliest destination as they’re looking for a young talent to run the squad and Flynn is actually from Niagara, which is quite close to Toronto.  Other possibilities include the New York Knicks (if Chauncey Billups is traded (there have been reports he’s on the block) the Knicks could target Flynn).  Phoenix is also another possible destination as noted below, but there’s also been a report (that most call highly unlikely) of a trade for Phoenix’s All-Star and former MVP point guard: Steve Nash, who would come over to be the Wolves starting point guard and more importantly-a mentor to the young Ricky Rubio.

Big news was leaked yesterday as it seems on Tuesday (5/31) the Minnesota Timberwolves and their #5 2009 NBA Draft pick: Ricky Rubio had indeed signed to join the team for the ‘11-‘12 campaign.

With this news, the rumor mill has begun to churn as it now appears the #6 pick in the 2009 NBA Draft: Jonny Flynn will be traded.  This isn’t the first time we’ve heard Flynn’s name come up in the trade rumors.  The TWolves tried more than once to swing a deal with the Rockets for Aaron Brooks (who eventually was traded to Phoenix for a pick and Goran Dragic).  

It is likely that Ricky Rubio will be the starting point guard for the Wolves next year, moving veteran Luke Ridnour to a reserve role which leaves Flynn the odd man out.

Possible destinations have been listed, as of now: the Toronto Raptors (they’re looking for an upgrade over Jose Calderon/Jerryd Bayless), Detroit Pistons (they don’t have a true point guard, Flynn would be a good fit), Sacramento Kings (they’re looking for a young star to complement Evans in the backcourt, he could certainly be a big piece for Sac-Town next to Cousins & Evans), Portland Trailblazers (they’ll be looking for a starting point guard if Andre Miller doesn’t return and possibly a backup for Miller when he eventually does retire), Phoenix Suns (Steve Nash is getting in up there in years and he won’t be around forever, Aaron Brooks is down there, but many believe he won’t be the future point of Phoenix).

This isn’t the last we’ll hear of this until he’s playing for another squad.  It could be likely that the Wolves could decide to move Flynn during the draft for another pick (or what have you).  That’s all for now, thanks for reading, stay tuned all offseason long for your up-to-date TWolves news and information.  GO WOLVES!

Former Minnesota Timberwolves Head Coach and Vice President Kevin McHale has officially become the Rockets’ next head coach after Rick Adelman was let go after this past season.

McHale was of course a long-term fixture in the TWolves organization from 1995-2008.  McHale went 35-55 as a head coach for the Timberwolves during his tenure.

McHale has never been an assistant coach and doesn’t have much experience, however the Rockets feel they got the strongest candidate available.  GM of the Boston Celtics Danny Ainge (and former teammate of McHale) said that Kevin’s intelligence level about basketball is as good as anybody’s also stating that McHale knows how to communicate, whether it be with the front office, ownership, his players etc.

Time will tell if McHale is a good fit down in Houston.  The one thing I know, is that the Rockets (if Yao isn’t healthy) will be looking to acquire some big bodies (something McHale obviously specializes in: one of the best low-post scorers to play the game).

Stay tuned all summer long for your TWolves news and information.  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

The Timberwolves have officially been in the “offseason” for the past month and since that loss to the Houston Rockets to end the year for Minnesota, Kurt Rambis has retreated to his home in Los Angeles. 

For a month we’ve heard rumors that sway back-and-forth as to whether Rambis will be fired or remain courtside for another try next season (whenever/if that happens).

A year ago, Rambis was very involved in the pre-draft workouts and he even accompanied Kahn to Spain to visit Rubio along with a few other players.  This season however, he’s remained in LA, while Kahn and assistant GM Tony Ronzone travelled to Spain.  Rambis was also absent at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago.

However, Kahn and Rambis’ agent say that his presence isn’t an issue, as he “wasn’t needed” in Chicago.  His agent says that he (Rambis) was involved last year, because it was his first year on the job and added that, not a lot of coaches are/were present at the Draft Combine.

Rambis has also been an ESPN Analyst for the NBA Playoffs since the Wolves’ season ended and while the Lakers were still in the “hunt” he was in attendance at every home (LA) game.

There’s been no timetable set yet, Rambis’ agent says that he (Kurt) has two more years on his contract and they’re waiting to hear from Kahn.

Rambis was however at today’s (Monday 5-23) NBA Pre-Draft Workouts that were held at the Target Center.  According to Jerry Zgoda of the Star Tribune (via Twitter), Kahn and Rambis didn’t sit together and they weren’t talking to the media about Rambis’ future with the team.  However, Zgoda noted, that by his presence, it should move the issue forward, because Kahn and Rambis have to meet at some point to talk things out.  Zgoda also reiterated the fact that Rambis’ presence at the Workouts didn’t mean anything one way or another, like in Chicago for the Combine, it was also optional for him to be there today.

That’s all for now, who knows when we’ll be hearing more on Rambis, hopefully soon.  Until then, thanks for reading and remember, you can get all your up-to-date TWolves news and information all offseason long right here.  GO WOLVES!

The following is a list of the potential center free agents come summer.  Some, have early termination options (player & team), others are restricted free agents (any team that makes them an offer can be matched by their current team) and lastly unrestricted free agents.

This is a look at all the possible center free agents and isn’t necessarily a list of players that the Timberwolves need to target, but rather a list of the potential free agents and what they could bring to the table for Minnesota.

-Nene Hilario (ETO): Nene is, without a doubt the biggest NBA center free agent this summer.  However, he has an early termination option and could still be with the Denver Nuggets for another season or sign an extension for long-term.  Nene has been linked to such teams as: the Miami Heat, Houston Rockets, Portland Trailblazers & New York Knicks.  Miami & New York both would have to trade other pieces to be able to sign him to a contract he’d accept.  Houston & Portland could potentially work something out, however Minnesota seems like it could be a destination as well.  I’m not quite sure that the best free agent center is going to leave a contender (Nuggets) to join a continually struggling squad (Timberwolves).  I would expect the Nuggets and Nene to work out a long-term contract that’ll keep him in Denver, after all, that’s where he wants to be.

-Ronny Turiaf (PO): Ronny Turiaf, currently a member of the New York Knicks and their current starting center.  Turiaf is an undersized center and isn’t exactly a top-notch option for most teams.  I think you can be assured that Turiaf will remain with the Knicks and accept his $4M+ option.

-Shaquille O’Neal (PO): Shaquille O’Neal has had a season plagued by injury.  A lot of leg problems for the 39-year-old dominant big man.  Shaq, has proven that even in limited time can still be a force on both ends of the floor.  That being said, do I think he’ll be back for another season in Bean Town or anywhere for that matter?  I really don’t think so.  The old timers, time is winding down and I do believe this ‘10-‘11 season will be his last.

-Ryan Hollins (PO): You better believe that this young big man will be accepting his player option for another season in Cleveland.  Ryan Hollins (the former Timberwolf) has a player option for $2M+ and you and I both know he won’t be able to grab that kind of money in free agency.  He’s an athletic center who can jump out of the gym, however, beyond that, well….there is no beyond that.

-Zydrunas Ilgauskas (PO): Z!  The 7-3 big man is currently a member of the Miami Heat.  He’s gotten a few starts, but has gotten some significant time off the bench as well.  No matter the end result of the Heat’s playoff run, Z will be back in the League for another season and I guarantee you, if that’s the case, it’ll be in Miami, on a contender, in quest for a ring!

-Aaron Gray (PO): Aaron Gray of the New Orleans Hornets is one big man!  A 7-foot 270+lb.  There’s really nothing beyond his size though.  He’s a role player and always will be.  The Timberwolves have Pek as their backup center, but may be in search for a 3rd string big, Gray could be their man.  The Hornets could have him back and I could see him re-upping with the Hornets however.

-Marc Gasol (R): After Nene, Marc Gasol is the next best free agent center.  Considering he’s a few years younger than Nene and could still become even better, you could argue he’s the biggest free agent center name.  Gasol is a restricted free agent and the Grizzlies seem to have every intention of matching any offer Gasol receives.  The Knicks seem to be the most interested team in his services.  I know a lot of Wolves fans ‘salivate’ (if that’s the correct word) at the thought of a Love-Gasol frontcourt.  

-DeAndre Jordan (R): DeAndre has made some bounds this season along with his buddy Blake Griffin in the Clippers frontcourt.  Jordan has become a solid low-post defender.  At just 22 years old, he’d be a great option for any team to pick up.  However, the Clippers have made it clear that they have every intention on Jordan being their center of the future after starting him over Chris Kaman (a former All-Star).  I’d expect the Clips to match any offer.  Now, turning to the Wolves, looking at a Love-Jordan frontcourt would be offense-defense, old school-athleticism, young potential-young potential.  It’s certainly a interesting option.

-Greg Oden (R): Greg Oden is another name that has had some mumblings throughout the TWolves community.  Oden has had an injury-riddled career.  The former #1 pick has proven he can be a difference-maker for his squad when healthy, however, his knees haven’t been able to hold up.  Oden will be a restricted free agent and the Blazers are expected to match any offers, however the Wolves may be able to acquire the 7-footer.  When healthy he would bring a defensive force to the Wolves next to Love on the frontline.

-Tyson Chandler: Yet another big name the Wolves could certainly look to acquire.  Tyson Chandler is currently a member of the championship-contending Dallas Mavericks who just swept the Lakers 4-0 on their way to the Conference Finals.  Chandler and he Mavs will likely come to some sort of contract agreement to keep the lengthy defender next to a perfect counterpart (Nowitzki).  Hopes are high that Chandler would be an equally impressive center next to Love in the frontcourt.

-Samuel Dalembert: A veteran shot-blocker with the ability to change games with his interior defense.  Dalembert is a veteran big man, who beyond his defense isn’t a great asset in the frontcourt.  However his defense would be a welcome addition to Love and Beasley as well as the Timberwolves lackluster team defense overall.  Dalembert is a name that is on more than a few radars and I’d expect him to sign for a bargain with the New York Knicks as their startin center next to Amar’e in their frontcourt.

-Yao Ming: The tallest player currently in the NBA at 7-6 has struggled with foot injuries in the past few years.  His enormous frame is damaging his feet, just like others before him: Bill Walton.  Yao, when healthy, is a changes the game for his squad.  His massive frame clogs up the middle and is not only a low-post defensive force, but his interior offense is probably the best of any center free agent.  Yao is also one of the League’s best free throw shooting big man.  Yao will likely sign for a small contract to stay in Houston, but I guarantee he’s an option the Wolves will consider.

-Nenad Krstic: A small piece of the Boston-Oklahoma City trade that featured Jeff Green, Kendrick Perkins & Nate Robinson.  Nenad is currently a reserve center for the Celtics, but I wouldn’t expect they’ll take him back.  Nenad will likely jump on with another team as a 2nd or 3rd string center.  He’s not an option for the Wolves that makes sense unless he’d be a deep bench warmer.

-Joel Pryzbilla: Pryzbilla was vocal in stating, that before the Trade Deadline, he wanted to stay in Portland for the remainder of the season and possibly his career.  That didn’t happen, Pryzbilla was a part of the deal that sent Gerald Wallace to the Portland Trailblazers.  Pryzbilla didn’t play much at all and was shut down with injuries.  He could be back as a center for the Bobcats in the future, but before he was traded he said that in free agency, he would also possibly consider offers from the Bucks (where he started his career) or the New York Knicks who are desperate for some quality big men.

-Chuck Hayes: The 6-6 center Chuck Hayes started his career and he will end his career in Houston.  Hayes wants to remain in Houston long-term as do the Rockets.  Hayes is a physical defender and center but is simply a reserve.  Hayes is a Rocket and will continue to be a Rocket.

-Jeff Foster: The Indiana Pacers 2nd string center (behind Roy Hibbert) Foster is a free agent this summer.  Foster is a veteran presence in the locker room and a quality reserve center for any team.  His name has been linked to the New York Knicks mostly.  Foster isn’t an option that makes sense for the Wolves, but Jeff will likely garner a lot of interest of contenders in search of a quality backup.

-Nazr Mohammed: Nazr was traded from the Bobcats to the Thunder just before the Trade Deadline.  Mohammed is a quality veteran, not a starter-quality big man, but a reserve big man that can make a difference with his overall play.  He’s the kind of big man that is solid overall, but doesn’t really do anything special altogether. 

-Erick Dampier: Erick Dampier was picked up as the 5th center for the Miami Heat earlier in the year.  After some time he secured a role as the starting center.  Dampier is a big body in the post.  A very physical center.  More of a defensive player, who will occasionally get involved on offense.  He fits well with the Heat as they don’t expect a whole lot from him.  A few boards, low-post D and just a rough physicality.  I’d expect him to be back in Miami next year.

-Dan Gadzuric: Gadzuric was traded from the Bucks to the Warriors and from the Warriors to the Nets in a matter of just over half a year.  Gadzuric is a reserve center that won’t get a lot of time, but is an insurance big man.  Dan may get an offer from a contender, but the Wolves won’t be a team that comes knocking.

-Alexis Ajinca: Ajinca was traded from the Mavericks to the Raptors earlier this year.  He’s likely the worst available free agent center.  The 7-footer will likely catch on with another team, simply because of his young age and possibility of being able to improve.  Ajinca won’t be an option for Minnesota though.