Latrell Sprewell's latest antagonist is the Minnesota Timberwolves' front office and their owner Glen Taylor, who has yet to finalize a contract extension that Sprewell believes should have been completed in July. With 12 days until Minnesota's Nov.3 season opener against the Knicks, Sprewell yesterday issued a warning to the team: "If they don't do anything before the season it could lead to potential problems.

"They're not showing the interest that they want to keep me," Sprewell added. "For what I've done and Sam (Cassell) have done for the organization, I think it would be somewhat of a smack in the face if they don't step up and get something done. If not, I would take it as it's time for me to go somewhere else."

Sprewell, 34, is scheduled to make $14.6 million this season and is hoping to receive a three-year contract extension worth $40 million. The Wolves are believed to be offering a deal for approximately $30 million over three years, but Sprewell made it clear yesterday that he's "not trying to take a pay cut.

"A lot of other guys out there are not even doing as well as I am and are still making as much if not more," he said.

The Wolves are trying to exercise fiscal responsibility while trying to contend, and many feel they could win the NBA title in June. Sprewell is a major reason why Minnesota, which had never won a playoff series before last season, advanced to the Western Conference finals, where the Wolves lost to the Lakers in six games.

"That's where I'm coming from," Sprewell said. "This team has never gotten out of the first round. We come here, we do what we have to do and we almost get to the Finals. If they're not going to take care of us ... it's a slap in the face.

"People will smile in your face and then stab you in the back. That's the nature of the business."