Timberwolves center Ryan Hollins practiced Saturday for the first time after missing six games — including a just-concluded four-game trip — because he had strep throat.
His return to the lineup remains in doubt.
“He looked very tired and very weak,” Wolves coach Kurt Rambis said after Hollins participated in the “majority” of a brisk 75-minute practice Saturday. “He’s lost some weight. He doesn’t look great. He doesn’t feel great.”
Hollins, a 7-foot reserve center, didn’t have any weight to spare on his long, lanky body to begin with anyway.
• The Wolves went winless on a four-game trip that ended with Friday’s horrid 135-110 loss at Memphis. That came only two nights after the Wolves trailed by 19 points in the first quarter, but still forced the Rockets to three overtimes before losing in Houston on a night when Al Jefferson delivered a monstrous 26-point, 26-rebound night .
From Eurosport (link and translation via Hoopshype):
Do you think Ricky Rubio can play in the NBA?
Jose Calderon: Of course, sure. Actually, he should be playing here already. (Pause) But look, I think he made the right decision because now he’s playing in the best team of Europe. Obviously this will help him improve as a player when he finally comes here.
From Evans Clinchy/NESN.com: Kevin McHale’s Front Office Legacy Defined by Kevin Garnett Trade
From the Associated Press:
The Minnesota Timberwolves are joining the NBA for earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.
The league and players union jointly announced Friday a $1 million contribution to the cause.