Mourning’s No-Show Fuels More Trade Talk In Charlotte

Alonzo Mourning failed to show for one of his team’s practices Wednesday, heightening speculation the Charlotte Hornets may trade the star center.

Mourning, locked in a contract dispute, did not attend the team’s 2-hour late-morning workout at its practice complex in neighboring Fort Mill, S.C.

“Right now, he’s a Charlotte Hornet,” coach Allan Bristow said. “Hopefully, he’ll continue to be a Charlotte Hornet until this is resolved one way or the other.”

Mourning rejoined the team for its second workout, a 90-minute session Wednesday night. He missed the earlier practice in part because he met with Hornets owner George Shinn.

Mourning, whose contract expires after this season, is said to be seeking $91 million for seven seasons.

The NBA announced it will start the season with two-man replacement crews because it has been unable to come to contract terms with its regular refs, locked out since Oct. 1.

The Vancouver Grizzles acquired forward Anthony Avent from the Orlando Magic in exchange for guard Kevin Pritchard and forward Larry Stewart.

Derrick Coleman practiced on a limited basis for the second straight day but the New Jersey Nets forward will start the season on injured reserve because of an irregular heartbeat.

Washington Bullets guard Mark Price is considering having surgery on his ailing left foot, an operation that could sideline him for several months.

NBA history will likely be made today as forward Ma Jian is expected to survive the Los Angeles Clippers’ final roster cut. He would be the first Chinese player to make an NBA roster.

Indiana Pacers center Rik Smits underwent successful ankle surgery and is expected to return in three to four weeks.

Utah Jazz first-round draft pick Greg Ostertag tore a tendon in the little finger of his right hand and is expected to be out for two weeks.