Marc Jackson hasn't exactly eased his way into the Timberwolves' world.

Besides having significant impact with his play in each of his first three appearances since being acquired last week at the NBA trading deadline, the forward/center has shown a personality as forceful as his moves in the low post.

Jackson already is one of the Wolves' most vocal players in practice, and during the 112-101 victory over the Lakers on Wednesday at Target Center, he frequently would holler out defensive assignments or try to fire up teammates with a smack to the chest or pulling them by the jerseys into a huddle.

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Kevin Garnett, who got slammed in the back by Lakers swingman Devean George late in the game Wednesday, showed no ill effects Thursday.

If Brandon is unable to come back, the Wolves could qualify for a disabled player exception of about $5.1 million and have until Oct. 1 to sign a replacement. And though they would still owe Brandon the $33.3 million left on his contract through 2004-05, insurance would pay about 80 percent once his career was deemed over.