Two exhibition games remain for the Timberwolves. It remains to be seen whether that's all the time left in Ndudi Ebi's career as a Wolf.

The NBA has informed the Wolves that Ebi will not be granted an exception to play in the NBA Development League, which could give the Wolves more incentive to waive the former first-round pick by the end of the month. The Wolves had petitioned the league for an exception so that Ebi could get more playing time in an attempt to get his career off the ground.

But the collective bargaining agreement states that only players in their first two seasons are eligible. The league found no wiggle room in the bargaining agreement.

"We've informed the team that the collective bargaining agreement specifically says players in their first two years," NBA spokesman Tim Frank said Saturday. "It won't be possible for Ndudi Ebi or any other player who's further along than his second year to go to the developmental league."

Wolves coach Dwane Casey said Saturday he was not surprised by the league's decision. Casey said Wolves vice president of basketball operations Kevin McHale called Stu Jackson, NBA senior vice president of basketball operations, to inquire about options regarding Ebi.

"Kevin called Stu just to see more than anything else," Casey said. "It kind of got blown out of proportion."