The French native's transcontinental trip from Paris most likely ends the Minnesota Timberwolves' pursuit of the 6-foot-8 small forward, who was summoned by the Trail Blazers to take a physical exam before signing a new contract with the team. "A Portland ce mercredi," Batum posted in French, which means "In Portland this Wednesday." Batum's scheduled physical is considered to be the final step before Portland officially matches the four-year, $46.5 million offer sheet he signed with the Timberwolves on Sunday. According to NBA rules for signing restricted free agents, Portland has until 10:59 p.m. Wednesday night to match the offer sheet and keep him on the roster. Before Batum signed the Timberwolves' offer, Portland general manager Neil Olshey stated that the club would match any offer Batum received. Batum, however, had expressed a strong desire to play with the Timberwolves, setting up a potential uncomfortable relationship between Batum and the Trail Blazers. Batum's willingness to fly to Portland for the physical is an indication he might have had a change of heart about staying with the Trail Blazers. There is good reason for the 23-year-old Batum, a four-year NBA veteran, to be excited. Though he wanted to leave Portland, he will enjoy a significant pay increase. Batum, who earned $2.155 million last season, will make at least $10.5 million in the first year of his new deal. --

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