Now that free-agent forward Juwan Howard has committed to the Orlando Magic, the Timberwolves have moved to Plan B, which includes talking with the agent of Indiana Pacers center Brad Miller.

The Wolves, trying to beef up their frontcourt, also hope starting center Rasho Nesterovic accepts their multiple-year contract offer to remain with the team rather than sign with world champion San Antonio. Since being spurned by New Jersey point guard Jason Kidd, the Spurs have turned their attention to adding another big man to team with Tim Duncan.

Nesterovic, also drawing interest from the New York Knicks, reportedly is considering the two offers and could make a decision today. Teams aren't allowed to sign free agents until Wednesday.

"I've talked to Rasho (Monday), and I've talked to him throughout this whole process,'' said Kevin McHale, the Wolves' general manager and vice president of basketball operations. "Rasho is not a guy to make rash decisions. He'll make up his mind in the next day or two. You always have to wonder in a situation like this. We like Rasho, and we chose to be proactive by making him an offer early into this.''

Nesterovic, 27, enjoyed the best season of his four-year career in 2002-03, averaging 11.2 points and 6.5 rebounds.

To make sure they are covered, McHale is busy working the telephones. McHale wouldn't mention names, but Miller's agent, Mark Bartlestein, said he has talked with McHale.

"We've talked about some things with the Timberwolves, but it could be complicated by the salary cap,'' said Bartlestein, whose client averaged points 13.1 and 8.3 rebounds and was an Eastern Conference all-star in 2003. "We've talked about a lot of different scenarios. Brad thinks Minnesota is a really strong team.''