'D' is for Davis? Apparently

Last update: December 8, 2006 - 11:16 PM

You would expect any calling card the Timberwolves' Ricky Davis would carry would include something to the effect of, "Have basketball, will shoot" printed on it.

But in recent games, as teams have worked to push him out of the offensive mix, Davis has contributed the most by playing strong defense and passing the ball.

Casey said he has seen a marked jump in Davis' defense starting with the Nov. 25 game with the Clippers, when Davis asked for and got the assignment of covering Sam Cassell in the fourth quarter. Cassell, on fire most of that game, was doused as the Wolves staged an impressive fourth-quarter comeback.

In the Wolves' victory over Houston on Wednesday, Davis made only one of seven shots, but he had seven rebounds and nine assists while playing strong defense.

"It's been my focus this year," said Davis, who scored 21 points in the Wolves' 110-103 victory over Utah on Friday night. "Last year, with the groin injury, I didn't play defense as well. I'm trying to round my game. If I'm 1-for-7, I have to do other things. I feel myself growing and maturing as a player."

Etc.

• An MRI on Mark Madsen's right shoulder confirmed that it had popped out of joint during some physical play Wednesday. But it showed no other significant damage, Madsen said. Still, he did not play Friday against Utah and might not make the trip to Chicago.

KENT YOUNGBLOOD