Timberwolves guard McCants nears return from knee surgery

MINNEAPOLIS -- Minnesota guard Rashad McCants, nearing a return from microfracture surgery on his right knee, was on the active list for the Timberwolves' game against Sacramento on Wednesday night.

Speaking about an hour before tipoff, Timberwolves interim coach Randy Wittman said McCants had a chance to make his first appearance of the season against the Kings.

"He's made progress every day. I'm to the point now when an opportunity presents itself, I think you might see him," Wittman said.

McCants had the surgery, which has sidelined several NBA stars -- including Jason Kidd and Amare Stoudemire -- over the past few years, in June. The original timetable for his return was four to six months, but the team has been extra cautious with its 2005 first-round draft pick.

After a slow start to his rookie season, McCants scored in double digits his last 12 games as his role increased with the team out of playoff contention. He shot 37.2 percent from 3-point range, a franchise record for rookies.