It's really a wonder this never happened sooner.
With Hall of Famer Kevin McHale working in the Minnesota organization since 1993, it would have been logical for the former Celtics forward to become head coach sometime during the past decade.
As the Wolves kept improving, but kept getting knocked out early in the playoffs, the insertion of McHale would have seemed like a safe bet.
It is happening now and he debuts on Sunday against the Chicago Bulls, replacing his good friend Flip Saunders.
``We talked (Saturday) morning, and it was very, very hard,'' McHale said. ``We've known each other for a long time, but our last 32 games we're 12-20, and just not playing at a level that's acceptable, energy-wise.
``Maybe a new voice will help. I'm going to do my best to get these guys competing at a higher level.''