After His Throw, Garnett Is Tossed

Coach Dwane Casey, above, said Eddie Griffin will return to practice today. (By Ann Heisenfelt -- Associated Press)

Minnesota's Kevin Garnett threw a ball at Detroit's Antonio McDyess in the fourth quarter of the Pistons' 104-98 double overtime victory last night, leading to an angry tangle and technical fouls and ejections for both players.

McDyess gave a forearm shiver to knock over the Timberwolves' Mark Madsen while they were underneath the basket jockeying for position on a rebound. Garnett got angry and fired the ball at McDyess, who charged at him with his fist cocked.

Garnett retreated, but was also ready to throw a punch. No blows were thrown, and teammates and officials stayed between the two . . .

Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich was ejected from San Antonio's 99-86 victory over the Hornets with 6 minutes 21 seconds left in the first quarter after getting two technicals.

Hornets Coach Byron Scott Scott and G Rasual Butler received technicals 31 seconds apart in the third quarter. With one minute left in the game, the Hornets' Desmond Mason was ejected when he slammed the ball to the floor after being called for an offensive foul. Chris Paul, who was on the bench wearing street clothes, also was ejected, for jawing at the officials after Mason was tossed.

· UP IN AIR: Eddie Griffin's time with the Timberwolves appears to be nearing an end.

The reserve forward's five-game suspension for violating the NBA's anti-drug program finished yesterday. Owner Glen Taylor said a decision on Griffin's status would be made next week, whether the Timberwolves issue their own suspension or release him from the roster.

"My guess is it would be the latter," Taylor said.

· SIDELINED : The Bobcats were without injured starters Primoz Brezec (stiff back) and Raymond Felton (sprained ankle) for last night's game at Atlanta.

-- From News Services