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Jordan serious about comeback
Phil Jackson isn't the only former Bull who believes Michael Jordan is testing the waters for a comeback. Former Chicago center Bill Wennington , a member of the final three Bulls title teams, says he has been playing informal basketball games with His Airness the past two weeks in Chicago and that Jordan does indeed appear serious -- at least about getting back into NBA condition. "I'm not saying he will [come back]," Wennington said Thursday night after the Lakers-Bulls game at United Center. "But I wouldn't be surprised." Wennington, who retired after last season, says he's part of a group of 15 former pro and college players who have been playing with Jordan the past two weeks at a Chicago club. Jordan's longtime personal trainer, Tim Grover , has an office in the club. According to Wennington, Jordan has trimmed down to about 220 pounds and can still dominate though he doesn't fly like he once did.
Smith may still resign with PistonsPistons forward Joe Smith , who signed a one-year deal with Detroit in November after NBA commissioner David Stern voided his contract with the Timberwolves, says he hasn't ruled out re-signing with Detroit in the offseason. "It's possible," says Smith, who is averaging 12.4 points and 7.2 rebounds while shooting just 40.8%. "We'll have to see what happens. I do know I want to stay in one place for awhile." Smith also could be headed back to the Timberwolves. He remains close friends with several members of the team, including Kevin Garnett , who last month campaigned so openly for Smith to return to Minnesota that the NBA threatened to fine him for tampering. The T'wolves, however, are over the salary cap for next season and would have only the $4.4 midlevel exception to offer. Meanwhile, Smith declined to address speculation the NBA might punish the T'Wolves if they do pursue him as a free agent this summer. Some have speculated that Stern might be holding Minnesota's forfeited first-round picks in 2004 and '05 as ransom to make sure Smith plays somewhere other than the Twin Cities next season. "You would hope [that wouldn't be the case]," Smith said.
NBA may get more international flavorPau Gasol , a 7'0" forward for F.C. Barcelona in Spain, is the latest international star to draw the attention of NBA scouts, some of whom believe he could be a lottery selection if he decides to apply. "He's intriguing because he's had a breakthrough year," one NBA talent evaluator said. "He's a good athlete, he moves well, and like most European big men he can pass the ball and shoot from the perimeter." Gasol, 21, is said to have a well-rounded game in the mold of Toni Kukoc , and has become a popular star in the Spanish League. However, he lacks strength and he reportedly still has another year left on his contract in Spain. Pacers GM Donnie Walsh and Suns GM Bryan Colangelo are just two of several NBA execs who have made trips this season to see Gasol play in person.
Marty Burns covers pro basketball for CNNSI.com. Click here to send Marty a question or comment.
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