What they're saying about McHale's departure

Timberwolves star Al Jefferson on reaction in a locker room that perhaps universally wanted Kevin McHale to return: "I think everybody understands this is business. Everybody on the team has been traded before just about, except for the young guys. We know right now we have to put Mac out of our heads right now. I talked to some of the guys today. In a way, we're glad it's over with now. Whoever they bring in, we have to accept him as our coach."

Veteran forward Brian Cardinal: "It's unfortunate because not a lot of times does a coach have all the support of the players. We all really enjoyed him, and I think he really enjoyed us. I think he got somewhat rejuvenated just being around the young guys, being around us winning some games, losing some games, being in close games. I think it excited him. It just didn't last as long as he'd like."

Jefferson when asked if he wants his opinion heard in hiring the new coach: "I don't want nothing to do with it. It's not my job. They pay me to do my job. ... There's no doubt in my mind there will be more changes coming. That's the whole reason [Kahn] is here. They brought him in because they needed a change. I'm just sitting back, waiting."

President of Basketball Operations David Kahn on Kevin Love breaking the news worldwide via Twitter: "I don't want Kevin to feel badly about that. We live in a very different world than all of us grew up in. I don't think it's a big deal."

Jefferson on the same subject: "That's something I just still don't understand. I haven't had a chance to talk to him yet. But I really believe everybody ought to let him know that was a bad mistake."

Here's a sampling of some of the reaction of online commentators from startribune.com:

Striber: McHale is SURPRISED and disappointed? IT IS WE who are disappointed: by the wasted seasons during McHale's tenure and [Glen] Taylor's failure to get rid of McHale a long time ago. Great player, lousy manager. Welcome back on the one hand, good riddance on the other.

dbt243: I like Kevin and loyalty, however, I agree that the Wolves need a fresh start with someone outside the organization. This will not solve all the problems and maybe the next guy will not have any more talent than Kevin, but the fans need to see a change to start building the support again if the Wolves are to stay in Minnesota.

Brabstown: I would just like to say, THANK YOU DAVID KAHN! You made the right decision and all the Wolves fans in this state and around the country are relieved and refreshed with your courage to take this franchise in a new direction. Good luck in the draft!

bigsting: That strange noise this morning was made by the half dozen remaining Wolves' fans rejoicing

gr8brutus: Let's not forget that the Pups made it to the playoffs eight consecutive seasons because of the players Kev brought in. I'm sure that when he drafted KG, a few of those lambasting him here for trading KG away, lambasted him for drafting KG. Personnel decisions weren't all Kev's to make, he did have a boss that dictated his fair share. To all the haters: take it easy, you wouldn't want me calling you a failure when you forget to hold the pickles on my burger.

bert: I won't cry that McHale is out, but for whatever reason I feel bad that it has now happened. I was going to be OK with him sticking on, and I was more prepared for his ousting right when Kahn took over. The true overhaul is just beginning, as we will see how Kahn begins to dismantle and then rebuild the team.