With the start of training camp looming Tuesday, the Heat remains in
talks with as many as three teams regarding possible trades. Among
those potential partners are the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are
looking to unload several contracts after trading Kevin Garnett to
Boston in a five-for-one deal in July.
The Garnett trade left Minnesota with a surplus of shooting guards and
small forwards -- two positions where the Heat has been looking to add
depth throughout the offseason.
The Heat's interest likely centers on swingmen Ricky Davis and Trenton
Hassell, veterans who apparently don't fit in Minnesota's plans to
rebuild around a youthful nucleus of Al Jefferson, Gerald Green and
former University of Florida star Corey Brewer.
Hoiberg said that McCants, Smith, and Foye have been here all summer working out and, along with the other young players, have developed a bond and are starting to play well together. He said the team is younger and willing to work hard. He also talked about how the players will be held more accountable than last season. Referring to Ricky Davis, he said that if someone gets out of line, they'll be suspended or benched and will be put on a short leash.
Hoiberg said Juwan Howard was disappointed that Garnett left but that he and his agent came in last week and "hashed everything out" in front of owner Taylor and Coach Wittman. Howard will do whatever it takes to help the team out and knows that any trade has to be also beneficial for the Wolves.
On Ricky Davis, Hoiberg said you don't have to worry about his effort, just have to get him to play the right way. He's been great the last month- coming into work with the younger players.
He said they feel that this year they have a better group of guys who will rally around each other.
One thing Davis has proven
throughout losing stints in both Boston and now Minnesota is that he's
a gamer. He'll fight you to the final whistle, and that type of
attitude should prove to be a good influence on the Wolves' young wings
during this rebuilding stage.
