Coleman Out With Ailment

Derrick Coleman has a “minor heartbeat irregularity,” and the New Jersey Nets star will miss at least the first five games of the NBA season.

The Nets said the 28-year-old forward will be on medication for several weeks and will be permitted to run and ride a stationary bike.

Team spokesman John Mertz said the exact diagnosis was not available, and league policy bars release of the medication Coleman will be taking.

Tom Gugliotta, a restricted free agent, has agreed to a new five-year contract with Minnesota for $27 million. The Timberwolves also signed free agent guard Terry Porter to a two-year deal worth a reported $1.8 million per season.

Philadelphia 76ers unrestricted free agent Willie Burton signed a one-year contract with Ambrosiano Milano of the Italian League.