Wed, Oct 24, 2007 at 12:00am

HEAT, WOLVES TRADE FIVE

The Miami Heat acquired guard Ricky Davis and center Mark Blount from the Minnesota Timberwolves for forwards Antoine Walker and Wayne Simien, center Michael Doleac and a conditional first-round draft pick.

What does it give the Miami Heat
In most ways this deal should be seen as a steal for the Heat. Davis is the best player involved by far, a versatile and well-rounded swingman in his prime who can score, pass, and defend. He immediately fills Miami's need for a dependable swingman who can score and distribute. Meanwhile Blount gives the Heat more depth at center, which is vital because Shaq and Alonzo Mourning aren't getting any younger. Losing a first-rounder hurts a little, but Miami is all about getting back to the NBA Finals right now with their current nucleus of players. It won't likely happen, but they're at least now a lot closer than they were a week ago.

What does it give the Minnesota Timberwolves
The only real positive for the Timberwolves here is they get a first-rounder for Davis, whose contract was going to be up after this season. Otherwise there's not much to get excited about, especially in terms of their on-court product. Walker is past his prime and can actually be a liability on the court at times, and his contract still has four years on it. The T-Wolves did get rid of Mark Blount's cumbersome three-year deal, but in the end this is about Davis for a first-rounder. Don't expect much from Simien or Doleac, but do expect this trade to potentially free up playing time for the promising Gerald Green.

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