Christian

Laettner

Laettner’s deal could become official later this week. His arrival might cost Jerome Beasley his roster spot.

Coach Stan Van Gundy was not concerned. Laettner is competing with Udonis Haslem for the starting job.

Laettner was able to return for the last game, but may need to rest again. ''We just have to let it heal,’' he said. “If I try to play too early on it, I’ll just hurt it again. They don’t need somebody who’s 50 percent out there.” The only significance when Laettner can’t go is it forces Shandon Anderson to play out of position at power forward behind Udonis Haslem.

With Alonzo Mourning coming on board, the Heat may give Laettner as much time as he needs to get better.

Laettner has missed three games with a back injury. He will make the trip, which begins in Denver tomorrow, with the team.

Laettner is scheduled to make approximately $6.1 million next season in the final year of his contact.

In 19 games since returning Jan. 23 from his five-game suspension, Laettner has received 11 DNP-CDs. Washington would prefer to see whether Etan Thomas and Jared Jeffries can be productive.

Laettner will battle for minutes at power forward. He’s expected to be a backup initially, but if he plays well, that could change at some point.

Laettner also held fellow former-Dukie Elton Brand to 15 points and four rebounds. If last night was a clue, the Wizards and coach Doug Collins are going to rely on their veterans like Laettner down the stretch towards the playoffs.

Few teams could offer Laettner more of a chance to compete for playing time than the Heat could.