James Is Going to Minnesota

Desperate for an experienced, reliable point guard, the Minnesota Timberwolves went out and got the best one left on the free-agent market.

They reached an agreement Tuesday with Mike James on a four-year deal, James’ agent told the Associated Press.

James, who is coming off a career season for the Toronto Raptors, will get the Timberwolves’ full mid-level exception, which is worth $5.215 million in 2006-07.

James averaged a career-high 20.3 points and 5.8 assists for the Raptors last season and instantly solidifies the Timberwolves’ shaky point guard situation.

Before signing James, Minnesota had injury-prone veteran Troy Hudson, inconsistent Marko Jaric and rookie lottery pick Randy Foye as its primary ballhandlers.

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Police found marijuana in Carmelo Anthony’s car during a traffic stop in Lochbuie, Colo., but the Denver player wasn’t in the vehicle at the time, officers said.

Anthony and team officials refused to comment. Anthony is set to sign an $80-million, five-year contract extension today.

Police said Tyler Brandon Smith, who identified himself as Anthony’s friend and roommate, was pulled over late Sunday 20 miles northeast of Denver and cited for marijuana possession and three traffic infractions.

Police said Smith was driving the 2005 Dodge Magnum, which was registered to Anthony’s company, Melo Enterprises. Police said two other men were in the car, but they were not cited and their names were not released.

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Washington guard Gilbert Arenas is ready to do almost anything to make the U.S. national team -- starting with mastering the shorter three-point shot.

“I’ve been working out on the international three -- it’s like a free throw now,” Arenas said at an open workout before leaving for next week’s training camp. “I’m accustomed to that line, and I know it’s hard for NBA players to shoot from that line. We don’t practice it. It’s either shoot an NBA three or drive into the lane, it seems like there is no in-between, so I’ve been working on it and I’ve forgotten about the NBA line.”

Arenas and 22 other invitees will train at the camp run by U.S. Coach Mike Krzyzewski in Las Vegas from July 19-25. Those who make the final roster will play in this year’s world championship in Japan.

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The NBA set its 2006-07 salary cap at $53.135 million, one day before teams were allowed to sign free agents and make trades.

Also determined were the mid-level exception and the tax level. The mid-level exception will be $5.215 million and the tax level is $65.42 million. Any team that exceeds that figure will pay a $1 luxury tax for every dollar it is over.

Last season, the salary cap was $49.5 million and the mid-level exception was $5 million.

The Lakers are expected to sign Vladimir Radmanovic and the Clippers are expected to add Tim Thomas.