The Minnesota Timberwolves had a promising 1998 NBA offseason. Led by up-and-coming superstar Kevin Garnett and supporting star Stephon Marbury, the Timberwolves were heading into their first winning season in franchise history.
Looking to build momentum, Minnesota signed former No. 1 overall pick Joe Smith ahead of a lockout-shortened 1999 season. It seemed as though Smith had pitched himself to upstart team Wolves by agreeing to a small, one-year deal.
But the truth is more dubious, and the seemingly team-friendly pact with Smith will ultimately cost Minnesota big.
