The Minnesota Timberwolves received a belated Christmas present from the office of David Stern: The return of a draft pick lost due to the Joe Smith penalties.

The Associated Press reports that the Wolves will get back their 1st round pick in 2005. ``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,'' NBA commissioner David Stern said Friday.

Smith returned to the Timberwolves this fall, signing a six-year contract totaling $34 million after a season-long sabbatical in Detroit following Stern's decision to void his contract with Minnesota.

Minnesota did not have a 1st round pick in the 2001 NBA Draft and will not have 1st round selections in 2002 or 2004.