Cartwright Gets Bulls’ Promotion

Bill Cartwright has a new title to go along with the five NBA championship rings he won as a player and an assistant coach with the Chicago Bulls: head coach.

“I’m really excited,” Cartwright said Friday. “I know this is a big challenge. I’m ready for it.”

Cartwright replaces Tim Floyd, who resigned Monday after going 49-190 in three-plus seasons. In addition, the Bulls made scout Pete Myers an assistant coach.

Cartwright’s first game as a head coach will be today when the Bulls play host to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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The Minnesota Timberwolves are getting back one of four first-round draft picks they lost last year for circumventing the NBA salary cap in the signing of Joe Smith.

“In light of the other penalties that have been imposed on the Timberwolves, and the team’s conduct since the Smith matter concluded, we feel it is appropriate,” said NBA Commissioner David Stern, who reinstated the first-round pick for 2005.

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Toronto Raptor assistant coach Stan Albeck has regained some strength on his right side after suffering a stroke Sunday. ... The Houston Rockets activated point guard Steve Francis from the injured list. The Rockets were 1-15 without Francis, who has been out because of ruptured tissue in his left foot. ... Rookie guard Omar Cook was waived by the Dallas Mavericks. ... The Philadelphia 76ers activated guard Speedy Claxton from the injured list and waived forward Michael Ruffin. ... Cleveland forward Tyrone Hill, sidelined all season by back spasms, has returned to practice.