What sealed the deal for the Minnesota Timberwolves, however, was Flynn’s performance in his interviews with president David Kahn, who saw a natural leader with a unique blend of charm, competitiveness and tenacity.

Even after drafting Spanish point guard Ricky Rubio with the fifth overall pick, Kahn didn’t hesitate to take Flynn at No. 6.

And now that Rubio has decided to stay in Spain for at least the next two years, Flynn will have plenty of opportunity to show he was worth it.

“I’m really eager for this town to get to know Jonny because I think that Jonny has a chance, just because of his innate charisma, to become one of the most popular players to ever play here,” Kahn said. “I really believe that. And I’m not just talking about basketball. I’m talking about in this city.”

Blount will stay at home in Miami during the preseason while his agent looks for work for him elsewhere, an agreement with the Wolves that’s expected to result in a contract buyout or trade.

The Wolves either could take back an expiring contract in the same neighborhood as Blount’s $7.9 million deal or save themselves some money by reaching a contract settlement if Blount can find a contract offer for the veteran’s minimum or better elsewhere.

That payoff amount would then come off the Wolves’ salary cap next summer.

The Houston Rockets have invited free agent guard Rashad McCants to take part in the team’s 2009 training camp.
From Terry Foster/The Detroit News: Shock personnel are bullish on Bill Laimbeer