"Once you have an identity and a style of play, you're going to step on the floor and do the same thing over and over again," he said. "That's what we've got to do. I think the style of play and an identity gives the team a comfort level and gives them a chance to go out there and play."

McHale wouldn't say what lineup changes, if any, might go along with that, but he provided a general outline of how he wants his team to play.

"Of course, playing off Al (Jefferson), but we've got to get some pace in the game offensively," he said. "It's an offense that should flow, and you shouldn't have to look over at the coach very much. You should be up and down the floor."

That wasn't the case under the demanding Wittman, who wanted things run his way and wasn't shy about pulling or calling out players who didn't perform up to his standards.

After some tough early losses, that could have played a part in the lack of effort that was evident in the past two games: a 113-84 rout at New Jersey followed by a 107-84 home loss Saturday night to the 3-15 Los Angeles Clippers.

"I just think that the early losses really just tore their hearts out a little bit," McHale said. "It just looks like the guys have been beaten down."

In addition to winning more games, McHale said he hopes to change that attitude in the next few months and make playing fun again.

"We have no joy in our play," he said. "It's the best job you're ever going to have, working in the NBA and playing in the NBA. There just wasn't that next level of joy. It just looked like a black cloud over us."

McHale singled out shooting guard/forward Mike Miller as a player who needs to get more shots for the Wolves.

Miller, who could return tonight against the Utah Jazz after missing the past two games because of a sprained right ankle, said he's looking forward to starting fresh.

"Mac's going to be a great coach," he said. "He's going to be fun to play for."

McHale said he doesn't want to overload the players with too much too soon, and he emphasized that the style changes he has in mind will take some time to implement.

He said he still believes in this group of players, though, and that the Wolves have enough talent to take the next step in their rebuilding program.

"I like the versatility of the team," he said. "You know, Mike Miller can bring it down the floor. Rashad McCants can bring it down the floor. (Randy) Foye can bring it down the floor. (Ryan) Gomes can bring it down and get into operating spots. That's the vision when we talked about the team and the players, and that's how we're going to play."