Hoiberg's good luck charm
by The Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS -- Even though Fred Hoiberg's playing career was cut short by heart surgery in 2005, he considers himself a lucky man -- just to be alive.

That said, the chronically unlucky Timberwolves aren't taking any chances with tonight's NBA draft lottery.

Hoiberg is bringing a Teddy bear dressed in Wolves garb. It belongs to 12-year-old Matthew Gamber, a Timberwolves fanatic who brings the bear into every surgery he has. And he's had a lot -- a liver transplant and over 100 other operations.

Hoiberg says he hopes the bear helps the Wolves land one of the top two picks.

This year is widely considered a two-player draft: Kansas State forward Michael Beasley and Memphis point guard Derrick Rose.

Minnesota has a 14 percent chance at the Number One pick.