. The Timberwolves improved under McHale, but finished third in the Northwest Division with a 44–38 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 1996. Kevin Garnett led the team in scoring, rebounding and assists, as he was selected for the 2005 NBA All-Star Game. Following the season, Latrell Sprewell retired after turning down a contact extension, Sam Cassell was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, and McHale was fired as coach.