David Kahn finally manned up after stringing along Kurt Rambis for the past 3-4 months since the TWolves season ended and fired the 32-132 coach (in two NBA seasons).

“I want to thank Kurt for his contributions to our franchise and wish him the best in his future endeavors.  His arrival signaled we were serious about building a championship-contending ballclub over the course of time,” Wolves president of basketball operations David Kahn said in a statement issued by the team.  ”We have accumulated a solid nucleus of young talent with a bright future during the last two years.  I am hopeful Kurt receives his share of the credit for helping develop that talent and his contributions are not forgotten as we become a better basketball team.

“Im grateful for the opportunity that Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor has given me.  During my years working with coaches Phil Jackson, Pat Riley and Cotton Fitzsimmons, I learned about the ups and down of this sport and today is one of the down days,” said Rambis in a statement given to the Associated Press.  ”But I’m confident that my work—and the work of my staff—with our many young players over the last two years will begin to pay off for Mr. Taylor and Timberwolves fans.  Now, as important new players are added to the mix, the future of this franchise should be a bright one and I am thankful for the chance I had, to play a part in shaping that future.”

Owner Glen Taylor will not only have to pay the remaining two years of Rambis’ contract, but he’ll also shell out more money for the new head coach (a good chance that the new coach will be signed cheap).

With Kurt Rambis, now, officially out of the picture, the Timberwolves will take some time during the lockout to search for a potential replacement and go from there.  The one name that’s been thrown out multiple times—Bernie Bickerstaff (a current Portland Trailblazers assistant)—(see the previous post on this site for more information on Bernie).  Thanks for reading and remember to check back daily for all the TWolves news, information and updates all year round.  GO WOLVES!

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: A recent report from ESPN NBA, has the likeliest trade for the Wolves’ #2 will be to the Phoenix Suns for the #13 and Marcin Gortat.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been shopping the #2 pick, quite hard the since the NBA Draft Lottery. They’ve been in talks with a number of teams looking to move up in this week’s draft (6/23).

As you look through past posts you’ll find dozens of trade rumors that continue to pop up nearly everyday. Today, the same team, but a different player has emerged: the Los Angeles Lakers’ Andrew Bynum.

The Wolves have been adamant that they want a veteran big man in return for the #2 pick and Bynum would obviously fill that role.

The Wolves & Lakers were reportedly in talks earlier this week about Spanish big man: Pau Gasol as Kahn is looking for some Spaniards to put around Rubio. However, the Lakers were asking for the #2 pick and Kevin Love as they’re looking to accumulate a lot of young talent. David Kahn has refuted that rumor saying that Kevin Love will be playing for the Timberwolves next season—that’s a promise!

However, Jim Buss of the LA is a big supporter of Bynum and likely wouldn’t let him go, unless they were absolutely blown away by an offer.

Bynum has struggled the past couple years with knee problems, so the Wolves are reportedly hesitant.

The Pacer we’re referring to is not Danny Granger, as his name has been mentioned before, but rather 7-2 Roy Hibbert. The Pacers reportedly offered Hibbert and the #15 for the #2, but the Wolves didn’t bite.

Other veteran big man that have shown up on the TWolves radar recently include: Milwaukee’s Andrew Bogut & Washington’s JaVale McGee. However, both of these teams have made it clear they have no intention of trading their young centers. Another is Phoenix big man Marcin Gortat.

That’s all for now, the draft is now just days away as trade chatter is sure to persist. Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

The 2011 NBA Draft is just 6 days away and the Timberwolves are still drawing interest for their #2 pick.  

There are a number of different trade scenarios that have emerged since the May Draft Lottery.  From Indiana the Pacers reportedly offered Danny Granger for the #2 & Beasley.  The Wizards were another team that are interested in the #2 pick and a trade that featured JaVale McGee & the #6.  The Phoenix Suns are yet another team that is reportedly ‘very’ interested in the Wolves’ #2 pick.  The Wolves are interested in the veteran point guard: Steve Nash.  Suns’ big man: Marcin Gortat is another interest for Minnesota.  The Raptors reported offer of DeMar DeRozan and the #5 for Jonny Flynn & the #2 were yet another.

Today, another couple trade rumors emerged.  The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly are offering Pau Gasol to Minnesota for Kevin Love and the #2 pick.  Pau Gasol’s name has come up before, but this is the first time the Lakers have actually expressed interest in All-Star Kevin Love-who played his college basketball at UCLA and whose hometown is just North in Oregon.  Jerry Zgoda of the Star Tribune says that the TWolves are certainly interested in Pau, but definitely not for Love and probably not for the #2.

The other rumor that seems to have emerged today is from the Milwaukee Bucks.  The Bucks are apparently interested in obtaining the #2 pick and rumor is that the Bucks are offering center Andrew Bogut and the #10 for the #2.  However, Frank Madden stated via Twitter that if the Bucks had initiated these talks with Minnesota, the deal would already be done as Bogut & 10 for 2 would be a no-brainer for Minny.  There’s no doubt that when Andrew Bogut is healthy he’s one of the top 2-3 centers in the NBA.

As we wind down the final days till draft night, these rumors will continue to circulate and I’m sure more will emerge.  Remember to stay tuned for daily updates on all TWolves news, information & updates all year round.  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

Michael Beasley of the Minnesota Timberwolves has recently returned to Twitter after a short absence two month absence.

He left the “Twitter World” about 2 months ago.  It was a few days after the Wolves’ game last game in Oklahoma City.  It happened just after that hard foul on Beasley by Bynum that got (Andrew) Bynum suspended two games.

After the Thunder game, Beasley re-tweeted a tweet from a TWolves season ticket holder: TWolvesLady.  TWolvesLady tweeted: “I sure wish coach would like @RealMikeBeasley play his game!”

A few days later before a game against the Dallas Mavericks, Beasley was questioned about the retweet and he said something along the lines of it being unintentional…a short while later @RealMikeBeasley was no longer on Twitter.  According to Beasley at the time, he’d just gotten tired of it.

The full story of what happened that made Beasley originally delete his Twitter account can be found by following this link: <http://minnesotatimberwolves.tumblr.com/post/4101645250/realmikebeasley-issue>

It’s good to have Michael Beasley back on Twitter and hopefully he’ll be back with the Wolves next season.  As trade rumors circulate; that if the TWolves draft Derrick Williams, they’ll look to move Beasley.

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

Today, we’re taking a look back at the late-October issue of Sports Illustrated, which was their 2010-11 NBA Preview issue.  On the cover are scoring champion Kevin Durant, defensive swingman Thabo Sefelosha & big man Nenad Krstic.  The title reads: Lakers & Heat BEWARE, THUNDER BALL: Kevin Durant & Co. are growing up Fast.  No doubt the Thunder did a lot of growing up moving past the Denver Nuggets and the Memphis Grizzlies on their way to the Western Conference Finals where they were ousted on May 25th by the Mavericks in 5 games.  Enough about the cover, let’s take a look inside…

The first part of the NBA Preview is a story on the OKC Thunder.  Actually a pretty good read (by Lee Jenkins).  Of course the picture has Jeff Green, Thabo Sefelosha, Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook & Nenad Krstic in it.  It would now, have KD, Russ, James Harden, Serge Ibaka & Kendrick Perkins as they made some offseason moves.

The second section of the NBA Preview is…a real shocker!!!  A story about the Miami Heat!  I’m sure you haven’t seen to many of those since “The Decision”!  I honestly didn’t read it, because I didn’t/don’t care!  

The next section of the Preview is the outlook of all the teams and where they’ll end up when all is said and done.  In the Eastern Conference, they had the Milwaukee Bucks, Detroit Pistons and the Charlotte Bobcats all making the playoffs.  In their place: the Philadelphia 76ers, Indiana Pacers & the New York Knicks all made the playoffs.  For the Western Conference, they had the Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets & the Utah Jazz all making the playoffs.  In their place: the New Orleans Hornets, Denver Nuggets & the Memphis Grizzlies all made the playoffs.  One thing they did get right, they had the Minnesota Timberwolves finishing 15th in the West, that they did.  They were, obviously the worst team in the NBA (record-wise).  The Conference Finals in the East were the Heat over the Celtics and in the West it was the Lakers over the Spurs.  Well, the Heat eliminated the Chicago Bulls in 5 games and are going head-to-head with the Mavs (once again: 2006!!) in the NBA Finals.   In the West however, the Lakers and Spurs were both eliminated as the Dallas Mavericks moved on to the Finals.  Their finals of Lakers over Heat obviously won’t happen either.

Moving on now, to what Sports Illustrated saw at the beginning of the season for the TWolves.  Let’s see if they were right…

The starting lineup and key reserves were listed as follows: PG: Jonny Flynn, SG: Martell Webster, SF: Michael Beasley, PF: Kevin Love, C: Darko Milicic.  Reserves: Wesley Johnson, Luke Ridnour, Corey Brewer.  Well…the backcourt obviously was a little off.  Both Jonny Flynn & Martell Webster had preseason surgeries to fix some injuries.  For Martell it was a back injury, that allowed him to play just 46 games in the ‘10-‘11 season.  For Jonny it was offseason hip surgery that allowed him to play just 53 games.  The difference of course, when Martell came back he was a big contributor for the Wolves off the bench.  When Jonny came back, his play was simply…horrendous!  

The next part of the TWolves preseason analysis is a section on a rival scout “sizing” up the Wolves.  The first statement this rival scout makes: “Kevin Love may not be their best player, but he’s certainly their most marketable.”  This one just didn’t make sense.  The fact is, before Jefferson was traded, Love had to come off the bench and never got the big minutes.  The bigger question is…if Love wasn’t their best player going into the preseason, WHO WAS!?  It certainly wasn’t Beasley: who had big struggles in Miami and had been somewhat written off, by a lot of folks.  If he thought it was Darko…HA!  Flynn?  Ridnour?  Brewer?  Webster?  Who was better?  Anyway…moving on.  He also added that Love isn’t a back-to-the-basket kind of player.  That is without a doubt, TRUE!  Love is definitely a jump shooter (face-up).  There were very few times this season where he’d receive the ball in the post and try to back down his defender using post moves and strength.  Something, that he needs to work on, along with his post D!

The next question…Who’s playing Center.  This was certainly a question that was on everyone’s minds (in ‘10-‘11 and STILL IS!).  Last summer the Wolves signed Darko to a 4-year $20M deal.  He definitely made some leaps and bounds as a player, but he still can’t be considered “starting material” he is a backup, at best!  What this rival scout thought, was that they needed a really gifted low-post scorer to play alongside Love, someone like…I don’t know…Al Jefferson?  He of course was traded to Utah for a couple of 1st round draft picks and Kosta Koufos (now with Denver).  For the ‘11-‘12 season, they definitely need to find an answer to this question that doesn’t end with DARKO!!

The next part was all about the Wolves offseason addition: Michael Beasley.  Beasley was acquired by the Wolves in an trade with the Miami Heat: the former #2 pick: Beasley for two future 2nd round picks (yes that is what we call a STEAL).  We all know Beasley was simply amazing in college and we all know that since joining the NBA he’s had more than his fair share of struggles.  Since joining the Heat in the 2008 NBA Draft (#2 pick to Miami after Derrick Rose), he’s had the opportunity to play with a superstar in this League: Dwayne Wade.  However, just as SI points out, that in his first two years it has looked as though he’s unable to play with anyone.  However, Beasley found a bit of a niche in Minnesota this season, he improved his shooting, however his rebounding was awful (as usual) obviously not too easy with the leading rebounder grabbing 10-20rpg a night (K. Love).  His defense and hist “teamwork” were notably ‘bad’ as well.  His defense wasn’t great, he played a permanently at the small forward this season, which changes where he is on the court and who he’s guarding.  He certainly isn’t the greatest ball handler (as he lead the Wolves in turnovers per game this season: 2.7).  The biggest quote that stood out from the SI preview was (in reference to Beas) that he has so much talent, but doesn’t do much with it and Pat Riley, one of the greatest GMs, coaches & players in this League couldn’t harness it or rather, just gave up on the young man.  Needless to say, if Beasley is committed to putting the work in, he could be a star in this League, if not, he’ll always be a large volume scorer, but nothing much beyond that.

The next big issue was second-year point guard: Jonny Flynn.  We’ve discussed this before and it is quite obvious, Flynn was simply awful in his second year.  With the offseason hip surgery and his struggles as he returned and couldn’t beat out veteran Luke Ridnour for his starting spot.  In his first year, Flynn was the best at getting the ball from one end of the court to the other at high speed and pushing it to the rim.  However, the biggest issue for Flynn has been the system he’s been playing.  Jonny is a pick-and-roll player and in Minnesota he’s had to run the triangle offense; something he’s been unable to accomplish efficiently.  The SI issue had Jonny having a great year, but that didn’t happen whatsoever.  I’d say, it’s a great possibility that Flynn won’t be donning the green & blue next season.

Lastly for the Wolves preview: a little best case-worst case scenario.  The following is a look at exactly what was written in the issue and we’ll see what projections actually ‘came true’.

BEST CASE: “They sort out their logjam at point guard & small forward allowing Jonny Flynn to take charge & Michael Beasley to thrive in his new environment.  Even better, they don’t make any more trades.

-Well, the TWolves did sort out their logjams at the 1 & 3 spots.  Mainly because of injury.  Ridnour took over for the starting guard last year: Flynn after he had to have offseason hip surgery.  Last year’s Wolves starting small forward was Ryan Gomes (who was traded to Portland, later waived and signed by the Clippers).  Beasley stepped up as the starter as their other offseason acquisition also had an injury that required surgery (on his back: herniated disc).  So actually Ridnour & Beasley both thrived (based on past statistics) in their new environments.

-Next, the Wolves did actually make a trade this season.  They were the third team that was involved in the Carmelo Anthony deal that sent him from Denver to New York.  The TWolves sent out their longest tenured player: Corey Brewer, to the New York Knicks and their offseason acquisition center from Utah: Kosta Koufos to the Denver Nuggets.  In return they received two New York Knick players: Anthony Randolph & Eddy Curry (Curry was bought out, shortly thereafter).  This was definitely a good trade.  They sorted out their jam at the shooting guard, sent a third string center out and snagged a big athletic forward that’s extremely versatile, whose potential is practically limitless.

WORST CASE: “Flynn cannot get the minutes he needs to develop, neither can rookie forward Wesley Johnson & Kevin Love misses Al Jefferson in the middle.  GM David Kahn picks up the phone and begins yet another makeover.

-Flynn certainly couldn’t get the minutes, his offseason hip surgery was the biggest reason and when he returned Wolves fans around the world groaned every time he checked in the game.  Wesley Johnson had to move to shooting guard to get the minutes and he struggled with his position change, but he could easily improve with some serious work.  

-Did Kevin Love miss Big Al in the middle?  Well, let’s take a look…Love finally got the minutes he deserves and he performed incredibly: leading the Wolves in scoring and the NBA in rebounds and rebounds per game as well as making the Western Conference all-star team and winning the Most Improved Player of the Year Award.  Did he miss Big Al?  I think the answer is obvious…NO!

-After a 17-win season (just a 2-win improvement from ‘09-‘10), GM Kahn hasn’t yet begun yet another makeover, but I don’t think the Wolves are in the clear from that.  They do have a nice core: Beasley, Love, Randolph, Rubio? (maybe someday), as well as the #2 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft.

The TWolves are an organization that has been in turmoil for far too long.  However, with Love & Beasley leading the way, the Wolves could seriously contend; even in the loaded West.

If you honestly read through all this, thank you, I suppose :)  As always you can always find your NBA Wolves news and information on this site all summer long.   Stay tuned, 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!

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Love may have beaten out a Northwest Division counterpart, in LaMarcus Aldridge for the All-Star game, but LA has edged him out as a member of the All-NBA Team(s).  

There was of course a lot of controversy after Commissioner David Stern chose the Wolves’ Kevin Love over LaMarcus Aldridge for Yao Ming’s All-Star injury replacement.  A lot of people were upset, the argument being: LA is actually playing for and practically carrying a winning team, whereas Kevin Love had incredible numbers playing for, what would eventually be: the worst team in the NBA (record-wise).  Zach Randolph was also looked over as he was putting up his usual and impressive 20-10 numbers for the Memphis Grizzlies (who, if you’re watching the Playoffs are doing simply: AMAZING, lead by?…Z-BO!).  

Aldridge & Randolph have exacted their revenge, though I highly doubt that either one sees it that way, they’re just playing the game in search of a ring.  

Both LA & Z-Bo are members of the 3rd All-NBA Team.  The teams stack up as follows…

FIRST TEAM: Derrick Rose (CHI), Kobe Bryant (LAL), LeBron James (MIA), Kevin Durant (OKC), Dwight Howard (ORL)

SECOND TEAM: Russell Westbrook (OKC), Dwayne Wade (MIA), Dirk Nowitzki (DAL), Amar’e Stoudemire (NYK), Pau Gasol (LAL)

THIRD TEAM: Chris Paul (NOH), Manu Ginobli (SAS), LaMarcus Aldridge (POR), Zach Randolph (MEM), Al Horford (ATL)

That’s all for now.  Stay up to date will all your Minnesota Timberwolves news from around the League right here all summer long!  Until then, thanks for reading and as always GO WOLVES!

The following is a list of the power forward free agents.  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 power forward 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.

-Tim Duncan (ETO): Tim Duncan in any other color besides black, white & silver!?  I don’t believe it!  You shouldn’t either.  Duncan does have an early termination option and there’s a good chance he could opt out of his contract this summer.  The aging superstar was knocked out of playoffs early last week after his Spurs were defeated by the Memphis Grizzlies.  The big man could opt out, much like Richard Jefferson did last summer: to sign a long(er) contract for more money.  I wouldn’t expect to see the ‘Old Fundamental’ playing anywhere else next season.

-David West (ETO): West has an early termination option this offseason as well.  I don’t see that happening however.  West had that season-ending injury late last season, putting him out for the playoffs, where the Lakers beat the Hornets in 6 games.  Before the injury, the thought was that West would almost certainly opt-out, however, since that injury his value has decreased substantially.  The Hornets have said they want to bring him back and that’s what you’ve got to expect.

-Boris Diaw (PO): Diaw of the Charlotte Bobcats is a solid versatile forward.  He’s a solid three-point shooter who has the ability to bang on the block and shot from the outside.  A lot of his teammates say he has a very easy-going attitude, maybe to easy-going, saying, if he was a little more dedicated he could potentially be a star in this League.  There is no doubt however, that he’ll pick up his player option worth over $9M.  He will be a Bobcat for at least one more season.

-Louis Amundson (PO): Amundson a former-Phoenix Sun signed with the Golden State Warriors last offseason and this summer he’ll have the opportunity to re-up with the Warriors or opt-out.  Amundson is a solid role player, nothing really special.  He plays hard and makes plays.  I’d expect him to resign with the Warriors, if he doesn’t, I’m sure there’ll be a plethora of teams looking for a stretch 4-5 guy.

-Brian Cook (PO): Brian Cook also has a team option for next season for the Los Angeles Clippers.  Cook isn’t a great player by any means, he’s a bit of a shooter, but beyond that, there’s nothing.  If he does decide to opt-out, I don’t see to many interested teams waiting in the wings.

-Jeff Green (R): Jeff Green is a restricted free agent this summer and you can be certain that if the Boston Celtics don’t resign the swingman to a lengthy deal, the town of Boston may riot (after they gave up fan-favorite Kendrick Perkins to acquire him).  Green is supposed to be one of the integral parts of their rebuilding process.  Green is a young swingman with a lot of talents as a point forward.  However, being a restricted free agent, you better believe he will get more than his far share of offers from various clubs around the League.

-Carl Landry: Carl Landry has made two NBA Trade Deadline moves in the past two seasons.  He was traded from the Houston Rockets to the Sacramento Kings two seasons ago and this past season he was traded from the Sacramento Kings to the New Orleans Hornets.  He’s a talented, still youthful forward with a knack for getting it done in the paint and mid-range.  Landry will certainly get some other offers, but the Hornets have been vocal in saying they hope to retain him.  He’s a good player, but he just wouldn’t fit with the players the TWolves currently have.

-Kenyon Martin: Kenyon Martin, the former #1 pick is a free agent this offseason.  The Nuggets could certainly look to renew his contract with the team and continue starting him at the 4-spot.  However, there’s no doubt he won’t be making the near-$16M he did last season.  Martin is a physical power forward, he can handle the best in the paint.  Known mostly as a banger as well.  Martin is a veteran big that will garner some interest and I definitely see him moving elsewhere this summer.  The Nuggets are going younger and he’s not the answer at the four.  Expect him to jump somewhere like New Jersey [this is a possibility, but this is the team he was drafted by just under a decade ago (as the #1 pick)].  

-Troy Murphy: Troy Murphy was traded to the New Jersey Nets and then thrown to the inactive list for the majority of the season.  Before the Trade Deadline he was traded to the Warriors and then waived, later signing with the Celtics.  He’s got minimal minutes, but he’s a great shooter especially for a big man as well as a capable rebounder.  He could be a starter for a lot of teams, but he’s currently a third-string forward for the Celts, needless to say, I see him signing elsewhere this offseason.  The Wolves?  It’s a possibility, but not a very likely one, the Wolves already have Love, Randolph & Tolliver at the 4, Murphy wouldn’t see much more play time for Minnesota.  I could see him in Miami?  LA Lakers?  All possibilites.

-Kris Humphries: I wrote an article a few weeks back discussing Kris Humphries, the Minnesota-native, possibly coming to play for his hometown-TWolves.  Humprhies basically said that he likes playing for the Nets and they’ll be moving to Brooklyn and they’re getting a new arena and he wants to be a part of that, head coach Avery Johnson wants him to be a part of that, and the Nets organization wants him to be a part of that.  I think the indications are pretty obvious, I’d expect you to see Kris back with the Nets for long-term.

-Glen Davis: Glen Davis is a young forward for the Boston Celtics.  This is the third Celtics power forward free agent this summer!  Clearly they can’t keep them all, however, Glen Davis should be back in Bean Town for a lengthy contract.  The big young forward is a HUGE spark off the bench and could even be a starter for some of the teams around the League.  Glen Davis will likely be a Celtic long-term.

-Vladimir Radmonovic: Radmonovic, the power forward shooter.  A deep reserve for most teams, Vlad is currently a member of the Golden State Warriors.  He’s a below-average player in almost every facet of the game.  However, his shooting is valuable, that along with his size, will certainly get him an offer this summer, most likely, not fromt the Warriors, or the TWolves, but some team.

-Solomon Jones: Jones is currently and Indiana Pacer, I haven’t seen him play much and I do watch a lot of NBA games.  He’s a young player who actually got some significant minutes this season and last.  With Tyler Hansborough for most of two seasons ago and Troy Murphy gone this past season, Solomon has gotten some bigger more minutes, however, I remember reading something that Head Coach (at the time) Jim O’Brien said, that he wouldn’t be starting anymore because of his inability to rebound the basketball.  If, however, he was playing significant minutes for a playoff team, he could certainly get a contract offer [granted the Pacers were the worst team in the playoffs (record-wise)].

-Josh McRoberts: McRoberts, another Pacer power forward will also be a free agent this offseason.  If you remember, the Pacers nearly traded McRoberts and one of their draft picks to the Memphis Grizzlies for…O.J. Mayo!!  Mayo is quite obviously MUCH more talented than McRoberts.  I could see Josh resigning with the Pacers this summer.  He’s a big guy with a solid inside game, nothing great, but a valuable reserve for any squad.  I anticipate Indiana to keep him as a 2nd-stringer behind Hansborough.

-Reggie Evans: Evans, the biggest threat to Kevin Love for the rebounding title last season before he broke his foot.  He’s an great rebounder, beyond that, NOTHING.  Evans could certainly garner some interest because of that, but I don’t know how many teams are interested in a big man who can rebound and do nothing else.  

-Jared Jeffries: From New York to Houston and back to New York once again.  That’s the story for Jeffries who was a part of the Houston-New York deal that sent Tracy McGrady to New York and Jordan Hill & Jared Jeffries to Houston.  Jeffries was waived around this past season’s trade deadline after the Rockets had to free up roster spots for Smith, Thabeet, Carroll etc.  Jeffries then hopped back onto the Knicks and even started a few games at center, of course the Knicks were swept in the 1st round by the Celtics.  Jeffries could resign to a few places, but I’d expect him to stay in New York, however, wherever he goes, he won’t get a whole lot of playing time.

-Leon Powe: Leon Powe was waived by the Cavs and later signed with the Memphis Grizzlies.  He’s a great young player who has been part of a few championship-caliber teams: Boston & Cleveland.  Leon garnered some interest after he was waived and I would expect the same this summer.  Wherever he goes, I’d expect him to sign with a solid team that’ll give him some play time, but not likely a team of championship-caliber, the Grizzlies?  Perhaps, however, they’re looking more championship-caliber every game out in these playoffs (currently 1-1 against OKC).

-Steve Novak: Novak, like Radmonovic a tall three-point shooter and nothing else.  He’s had stints mostly with the Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks and the San Antonio Spurs.  Beyond three-point shooting Novak wouldn’t be in the NBA.  I’d expect him to catch on as a bench warmer for some team, but I couldn’t tell you who.

The following is a list of the the small forward free agents.  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 small forward 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.

-C.J. Miles (TO): C.J. has had an up-and-down career, from starter to bench warmer to D-League to role player and everywhere in between for the Utah Jazz.  He has a team option this offseason for the Jazz and I’d expect them to almost definitely pick it up.  This is the same player that set a career-high in points at 40 in the UTA-MIN last meeting.  If he isn’t re-upped, I wouldn’t doubt the TWolves to be interested.  He’s a young-potential and brings athleticism, shooting and above-average defense.

-Mickael Pietrus (PO): Pietrus was involved in that trade that sent Carter, Gortat and himself to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Hedo Turkoglu and Jason Richardson.  I wouldn’t be surprised if Pietrus passes on his player option and at the same time I wouldn’t be surprised if he decides to remain in Phoenix.  He got almost no play time when he was traded and at the end of the year suffered and injury.  With the CBA lingering I could see him remaining in Phoenix and most likely being traded or he could simply enter free agency and decide himself.  Pietrus is a seasoned vet and is a solid swingman on both ends of the floor.

-Sam Young (TO): The Grizzlies are still in playoff contention and since Rudy Gay went down, it’s been Sam Young and Tony Allen at the 2 & 3 and they’ve stepped up big.  I would be surprised if the Grizz decided to let Young slip into free agency.  He’s still a young player and would be a solid role player on any team.

-Matt Barnes (PO): Matt Barnes has a small player option next season for the Los Angeles Lakers.  I’m not certain as to whether he’ll want to return next season.  I feel like Matt Barnes has a lot of better options to join teams that are in need of a small forward, unlike the Lakers (who although they’re playoff contenders) who are deep at the 3-spot (Ron Artest, Lamar Odom, Luke Walton).  If you remember, he was going to sign with the Raptors, before they had some financial troubles and he ended up in LA.  I could see him going somewhere where he’ll be able to get a lot more minutes (not necessarily a starter).  Barnes is a great lockdown defender and he would be welcomed with open arms to Minnesota.  He also has a decent three-point shot.

-James Jones (PO): James Jones of the Miami Heat.  Just the other day (in the playoffs) Jones dropped 25 in minimal time off the bench.  He’s a great three-point shooter who will almost certainly be back in Miami for another season.  Beyond his three-point shooting however, well, there’s not much to say.  If he did enter free agency, I could see the Wolves (a team who shot a lot of threes a season ago) at least taking a glance at him.

-Thaddeus Young (R): Beyond Wilson Chandler, this is one of the biggest free agent small forwards out there.  Thaddeus Young is only 22 years old and was an integral part of returning the 76ers back to the playoffs.  He’s an athletic point forward with a lot of different tools. The Wolves already have a player like Thad-Anthony Randolph.  However, Thaddeus is more of a threat all over the court.  I’d expect some teams to make a run at him, but the Sixers will likely match any offer to keep Young in Philly.

-Wilson Chandler (R): Probably the ‘best’ small forward free agent on the market this offseason.  He was a part of that big 13-player deal that sent Carmelo Anthony to the Knicks.  Chandler, now a member of the Denver Nuggets may or may not be in their future plans.  In the Melo deal, the Nuggets also received small forward Danilo Gallinari, who is less talented, but started, bringing Chandler off the bench.  Danilo is a big young potential, that I could see being one of the centerpieces of the Nuggets for years to come.  Chandler will most definitely get some offers to play for different clubs, but I’d expect the Nuggets to match any (non-ridiculous offer) and keep their sixth man.  Chandler is a big body that can play the three and the four.  He’s a solid shooter and does all the little things on both ends to help his team be successful.

-Tayshaun Prince: Tayshaun Prince had another season of turmoil in Detroit after years of successful runs to the playoffs.  He continually butted heads with head coach John Kuester and is almost certainly looking for a way out.  Prince’s name has been linked to a number of different teams this summer, the one most likely: the Dallas Mavericks.  Head coach Rick Carlisle was a former Piston assistant during Prince’s rookie season.  The veteran-friendly Mavs will be looking for a bit of an upgrade at the small forward: DEFENSIVELY.  Prince could be the answer.

-Caron Butler: Butler saw his season cut short after a season-ending injury that’s kept him sidelined now, for almost 4 months.  Butler does hope to return for the playoffs, however it’s seeming less likely.  As I write this the Mavs are, however, currently up against the Lakers leading the series 2-0.  Butler is a great veteran small forward that’ll bring a lot of intangibles on both ends that any team needs to be successful.  I’m not 100% certain he’ll be back with the Mavs next season, he may be a bit out of their price range.  However, with his injury-plagued season, he may have to lower his price or get no offers whatsoever, a lot of teams will certainly be hesitant because of that injury.

-Shane Battier: Battier was traded just before the deadline in a deal that sent the Grizzlies Hasheem Thabeet to the Houston Rockets for swingman and ex-Grizz Shane Battier.  Battier is actually a name that the Wolves community has been saying in a recent weeks.  Battier is the kind of veteran swingman that won’t demand a lot of play time, who would be happy as a role player, but at the same time is a very talented player.  He’s a great defender (something/one the Wolves REALLY need) a solid shooter and a capable player on both ends.  I can only hope the Wolves will get a chance to make him an offer or rather that they actually will!

-Andrei Kirilenko: Lifelong Jazz(er) Andrei Kirilenko is a free agent this offseason.  He’s been a fixture on the Jazz for quite some time now, however this past season may have been his last in Utah.  Since trading away all-star Deron Williams the Jazz are in a bit of a rebuilding stage (not really though, with players like: Al Jefferson, Devin Harris, Paul Millsap & Derrick Favors),  There’s been talk that Paul Millsap will be working this summer to become a small forward player.  To me, indications seem strong that Millsap will be the new starting small forward with Favors at the 4 and Big Al at the 5.  Kirilenko will certainly garner some interest as a long lanky defender who is will also get involved on the offensive end.  This could be another potential look for the TWolves.  However, my money is on the New Jersey Nets.  There Russian billionaire owner (I say that, cause I didn’t want to look up how to spell his name) is a good friend of fellow-Russian Kirilenko, they Nets are in need of a defensive presence and a solid starting small forward: there you go!

-Grant Hill: The Phoenix Suns have apparently found the fountain of youth with old superstars like Hill and Steve Nash.  Hill is 38 years old, but does he look it?  More importantly does he play like it?  Absolutely not!  Hill is a great wing and could get certainly get some offers this offseason.  One interesting team I could/would like to see him play for, is the Los Angeles Clippers.  The Clippers are in dire need of a starting small forward (Ryan Gomes just won’t cut it).  Beyond that, like a lot of these old veteran swingmen, I’d expect him to look to play for a championship contender.

-Peja Stojakovic: Peja-possibly the best shooter in the NBA?  I could go along with that.  He’s one of the best three-point shooter I’ve ever seen.  Peja is a great vet, who brings both veteran leadership and an incredible touch from almost anywhere on the court.  Peja was traded from New Orleans to Toronto, he was later ‘waived’ and eventually signed with the Dallas Mavericks.  He has gotten a few starts at the small forward next to Dirk Nowitzki.  He’ll definitely garner some interest from some of the championship contenders around the League.  

-Jason Kapono: Kapono is a solid three-point shooter and beyond that, well, no, that’s it.  If any team is looking for a floor-spreader who can knock down tough shots he’s your guy.  I don’t expect the Wolves to be looking to JK though.

-Jamario Moon: Moon was traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Los Angeles Clippers in a deal that also featured Mo Williams and Baron Davis.  Moon is a role player, nothing more.  He’s an athletic player who can knock down some shots as well.  He should hook up with someone this offseason, I’m just not sure who.

-Al Thornton: Al Thornton was surprisingly waived by the Washington Wizards around the NBA Trade Deadline, he later signed with the Golden State Warriors and got some substantial minutes behind Dorell Wright.  Thornton will get plenty of offers this offseason, he’s a valuable reserve with a lot of athleticism.  He’s a versatile player, but he isn’t someone I see the Wolves going after.

-Earl Clark: Earl Clark was a small-part of the Phoenix-Orlando deal earlier this year (Vince Carter/Marcin Gortat/Mickael Pietrus for Jason Richardson/Hedo Turkoglu/Earl Clark).  He didn’t get a lot of play time with the Orlando Magic.  He’s a versatile young forward with upside.  The Magic are uncertain as to whether he’ll be back in Orlando this offseason.  

The shooting guard position is a slot the Timberwolves definitely need some help at.  They currently have Wesley Johnson and Wayne Ellington on the roster, but they certainly need some help.

The following is a list of the shooting guard free agents.  Some of them have early termination options (player & team options), 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 shooting guard free agents and isn’t necessarily a list of a 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.

-Ray Allen (PO): Ray Allen is arguably the best pure shooter in the NBA!  With a player option for the championship-contending Boston Celtics, I think you can be almost 100% certain that he’ll be back with the Celts next season.  Hypothetically Allen would bring veteran-leadership and a dominant shot from any spot on the court.  Allen would be a HUGE acquisition for the Wolves, but he’ll be back in Boston next season.

-Leandro Barbosa (PO): Barbosa was traded this last offseason from the Phoenix Suns to the Toronto Raptors.  He has a player option for next season at over $7M.  He certainly wouldn’t be able to get that much in free agency and with the CBA lingering, I’d expect him to be back, north of the border next season.  Barbosa could bring a solid combo guard scorer as well as a good shooter, but a mediocre defender.

-Charlie Bell (ETO): Bell, a Milwaukee Buck before a trade along with Dan Gadzuric to the Golden State Warriors for Corey Maggette.  Bell is a veteran point guard with an early termination option.  It seems likely that he’ll stick in Golden State as a reserve guard.  With the CBA and his sub-par ‘10-‘11 season, he won’t be leaving the city by the bay.  

-Shannon Brown (PO): Shannon Brown has a player option to return to the Los Angeles Lakers next season.  Brown is a capable starter in the NBA, but has been a reserve now for quite some time, behind Kobe.  I’d say there is a good chance, Brown could decide to move onto another team.  If that’s the case, I’d hope the Timberwolves “come knocking”.  He’s an athletic young guard with a solid perimeter shot.  He’s a quick and capable defender and could be just the guy the Wolves could use.

-Arron Afflalo (R): Afflalo is a talented young scorer, currently a member of the Denver Nuggets.  Afflalo is the Denver starting guard and I’d expect him to remain just that.  Afflalo is a restricted free agent and as long as an offer from another team isn’t ridiculous, I’d expect the Nuggets to retain him.  However, to the Wolves, he could bring a sharp shooting touch and a go-to scorer (beyond Beasley) in the final minutes of a game.

-Nick Young (R): The Washington Wizards have two very talented young shooting guards: Jordan Crawford and Nick Young.  The Wizards have said that Crawford’s play won’t effect them re-upping Young.  Young made tremendous strides this season after Gilbert Arenas was shipped off to the Orlando Magic; he became the starting 2-guard.  Young is seen as nothing more than just a scorer, he doesn’t play defense, his primary weapon is his scoring.  The Wolves could certainly use another scorer, but his inability/”non-desire” to play defense would just hurt the TWolves.

-Jason Richardson: In a recent report, the Orlando Magic talked about the future of their current starting shooting guard.  J-Rich became the starter after the Magic swapped Carter and Gortat to the Suns for Richardson and Turkoglu.  The Magic have said that it greatly depends on the CBA as to whether they’ll even be able to offer Richardson a contract.  If the new CBA has a mid-level exception clause, they could potentially offer him that, but nothing more.  The Bulls have been a possible destination for the NBA journeyman as well who’s made stops in Golden State, Charlotte, Phoenix and now Orlando.  Richardson would bring veteran leadership, athleticism and a probably 15-20 points a night.

-Jamal Crawford: Jamal Crawford was left off the list for Hawk extensions.  Al Horford and Joe Johnson both got extensions and Crawford was vocal about hoping they could come to an agreement.  It could all depend on how far the Hawks make it this season as to whether he’ll be offered an extension.  Crawford is a great shooter who, like a lot of great shooters, doesn’t play great defense.  Crawford is a solid 6th man-type player, I wouldn’t be surprised if he hops onto another, better championship contender for a run at a ring.

-Mike Dunleavy: Dunleavy is a proven veteran who has struggled in recent years due to a variety of different injuries.  I don’t expect the Pacers to re-up the veteran shooter.  Dunleavy is just a role player at this stage in his career.  I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up playing for a team like the Celtics or somewhere where he’ll get some minutes off the bench as a scoring punch.

-Sasha Vujacic: Vujacic was traded from the Los Angeles Lakers to the New Jersey Nets earlier this season.  He went from a deep reserve on a contender Laker team to a starter for a lottery bound Nets.  He, like most shooting guards is nothing more than a scorer and he’s “gained fame” for not even being a great scorer.  The Nets have basically said that he isn’t in there long term plans and most likely will not be back.  I could definitely seeing the Wolves making him an offer as a reserve guard off the bench for that scoring punch.  If not the Wolves, Vujacic will most likely sign with a team that isn’t of elite-caliber, so he can get some play time and contribute.

-Michael Redd: Michael Redd made a return to the hardwood after a long rehab on injuries and re-injuries for well over a year.  The lifelong Buck played in just 10 games last season, 18 the year before that and 33 the year before that.  He’s a good scorer with a solid all-around game, but there’s no doubt he’ll never be the player he once was.  The Bucks have said they have intentions to resign Redd to a contract, wanting to keep the lifelong Buck, a Buck for his career. 

-DeShawn Stevenson: DeShawn’s career has been resurrected since being traded two seasons ago from Washington to Dallas.  He’s the starter for the contending Dallas Mavericks.  I’m not certain as to whether he’ll be back with the Mavs next season though.  He’s a talented shooter and an capable defender.  He would certainly be a welcome addition to the TWolves.   

-Anthony Parker: Parker is a veteran shooting guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers, but I’d expect him to be on the move this offseason.  The Cavs are going younger and there are plenty of contenders who would be interested in his services.  However, Parker has said that he could potentially retire if there is indeed a lockout.  Parker won’t likely look to jump from the second-worst team in the NBA (record-wise) to the worst (Wolves/record-wise).  I could see Parker as a Bull, a Celtic or somewhere like that.

-Willie Green: Green moved from the Philadelphia 76ers to the New Orleans Hornets before the beginning of this past season.  He was the main guard off the bench for the Hornets and if split some time in the starting gig with Marco Bellinelli.  I wouldn’t be surprised, if he isn’t asking too much, if the Hornets decide to re-up the veteran guard.  He brings a solid scoring punch, defense and athleticism.

-Sasha Pavlovic: The former TWolf, Celtic, Hornet, Maverick, Sun and just about every other team.  Pavlovic is nothing more than a deep role player/bench warmer.  I wouldn’t expect any team to come looking to sign him this offseason as he’ll likely be a free agent signed to multiple 10-day contracts with multiple teams again.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Head Coach Phil Jackson has been very vocal that he won’t return next season with intents to retire.  The Lakers are looking at potential replacements and current head coach of the Timberwolves Kurt Rambis’ name has come up recently.

Kurt Rambis’ future with the Wolves is in serious jeopardy after another losing season for the TWolves.  Rambis has a 32-132 record in his two years as head coach.  GM of the Wolves David Kahn and owner Glen Taylor haven’t made a decision yet on the future of Rambis with the team.

Rambis has been at all three of the Lakers’ playoff home games versus the Hornets.  The thought is he could be potentially angling for the head coaching job next season.  Rambis’ coaching job with the Wolves is obviously an obstacle, but chances are he’ll be fired and this coaching job with the Lakers is a very possible situation.  He’s a former player, assistant coach, and interim coach for the Lakers.

Simply speculation though, there’s certainly the possibility that Rambis is simply supporting Jackson in his final playoff run. 

The Minnesota Timberwolves season came to an end on that 15-game losing streak and an NBA-worst 65 losses.  With that, comes another lottery-bound offseason and another quick start to the summer workouts for our Timberwolves.

Let’s take a quick look at some of our Wolves players offseason plans and workouts.  The following is a list of workout plans according to Yahoo Sports! for our Wolves.

-Darko Milicic & Darko Milicic have made plans to meet back home in Europe this summer.  Darko has said he intends to improve his overall conditioning and endurance by playing some 5-on-5, rather than what he’s mostly done in the past: running and weight lifting.  GM David Kahn said in his end of the year press conference that he wouldn’t be sure what Darko’s role with the team would be next year, all depending on the work he puts in this summer.  Assistant coach Bill Laimbeer has made plans to travel to Serbia this summer to oversee some of those workouts with Pek and Darko.

-Michael Beasley has made plans to do some of his offseason workouts in Los Angeles this summer.  The plan is to meet up with teammate Wesley Johnson and possibly Kobe Bryant.  Wes & Kobe worked out a few times last summer and Wes hopes to do that again, only more “extensively”.  Johnson and Bryant both share the same agent: Rob Pelinka.

-All-Star Kevin Love has made plans to also workout in Los Angeles for the majority of the offseason.  As with the past few summers he’ll be meeting up with friends and fellow Team USA teammates Russell Westbrook & Derrick Rose.  Love, of course, also attended UCLA before making the jump to the NBA.  

That’s all I’ve got for you for now.  Throughout the summer, we’ll bring you more updates on these offseason workout updates as well as updates on: the CBA, Coaching Updates, free agent targets, transactions/acquisitions and all other news-Timberwolves, all summer long.  For now, thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

Darko Milicic: the starting center for the Minnesota Timberwolves has decided to auction off his 2004 NBA Championship Detroit Pistons ring.  He’ll be auctioning it off to raise money and awareness for children dealing with the terminal illness known as Batten’s disease.

Milicic will also be auctioning off the Championship belt that was given to him by Rasheed Wallace.

Batten’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects mostly children and gradually causes blindness, seizures and death.  Milicic first found out about this disease while reading a newspaper story about this disease in his native “homeland” Serbia.  

The treatments for this disease cost $35,000 and Milicic is raising this money in hopes that they’ll be able to be more affordable someday.

Darko got the idea last year when Ron Artest auctioned off his championship ring, he won with the Lakers last season for mental health programs in schools.

Anyone who is interested can purchase raffle tickets for $2 each and the raffle will be open for a few months until a winner is chosen.  He will also be giving an all-expense paid trip to the NBA Finals in June.  

Milicic won his Championship ring as a member of the Detroit Pistons.  He was a rookie and seldom-played, so needless to say this record doesn’t have much “sentimental” value to him.  He knows this is going to a great cause however the belt he was given by Rasheed Wallace was a gift and does mean a lot to him.  However, he hopes Wallace understands and knows it’s going to a great cause.