"During the first two months of the NBA season, it was obvious that opponents did not give priority status to covering Timberwolves swingman Corey Brewer.

If Brewer had a good look at the basket, foes didn't seem to worry about it. Brewer's 38 percent shooting was an indication that he would probably miss the shot.

A lot has changed since then, including the casual approach by teams in defending Brewer — and the third-year veteran feels pretty good about it.

"I don't get as many wide-open shots as I used to," Brewer said, smiling. "I guess it's a sign of respect ... when you start knocking down some shots."

Brewer noticed he was getting more attention during the Wolves' four-game road trip last week. The Wolves (8-33) were 0-4 on the trip, but Brewer averaged 18.2 points and shot 44.8 percent from the floor (26 of 58). Even more significant on the trip was his 50 percent shooting from three-point range (9 of 18).

Brewer's increased production figures to be more than a footnote in the Philadelphia 76ers' preparation for today's afternoon game at Target Center.

One of the critical questions for the Wolves before the season was Brewer's shooting. In coach Kurt Rambis' triangle offense, Brewer would be in position, perhaps more than any other player on the roster, to take quality shots.

The inside presence of Al Jefferson and Kevin Love and point guard Jonny Flynn's penetration were expected to create opportunities for Brewer, but there were concerns whether he would be able to handle the responsibility. Brewer shot 41.4 percent last season before missing the final 67 games with a knee injury.

He struggled with his confidence the first two months and is laboring through a change in his shooting mechanics. The diligence, however, is beginning to pay off. His shooting percentage is up slightly from last year at 42.4 percent, and he has doubled his scoring average from 6.2 points per game to 12.6.

Rambis sees progress, but Brewer's transition from a shaky shooter could be a season-long process. "