Rice Will Stay Put

While the Knicks may covet Glen Rice as compensation for the services to former New York coach Pat Riley, the Heat says its high-scoring forward will not be part of any such settlement.

Barred by NBA commissioner David Stern from commenting on any aspect of the New York tampering claim regarding possible Heat overtures to Riley, Heat executive vice president Dave Wohl broke his silence long enough to refute reports that Rice could be part of a settlement between the feuding teams.

“Glen Rice is not going anywhere,” Wohl said upon returning from a vacation. “There’s no way Glen is going to be part of any compensation.”

Riley is interested in the Miami opening and the Heat are reportedly willing to offer him a five-year, $35 million contract.