Los Angeles - Randy Wittman became the latest NBA coaching casualty, after the bottom-feeding Minnesota Timbwervolves fired him and named vice president of basketball operations, Kevin McHale, as his replacement.

Wittman's dismissal comes on the heels of a five-game losing streak, including a 29-point drubbing by the New Jersey Nets, and a 23-point embarrassment at the hands of the equally-abysmal LA Clippers (4-16) over the weekend

"There were certain goals and expectations that we had for this team at the start of the season, and we have not lived up to them," Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor said in a statement released on the team's web site.

"I am disappointed in our record (4-15) and believe that we have more talent than our record indicates. A change had to be made and with three-fourths of the season remaining, there is still time to make substantial progress this year.

"I want to thank Randy for all of his contributions to the Timberwolves through the years as both a head coach and an assistant coach, and wish him the best in the future," Taylor said.

Wittman compiled a 38-105 mark after taking over for fired Dwane Casey in January 2007.

McHale returns to the sidelines where he achieved a 19-12 record during the 2004-05 season after firing good friend Flip Saunders.

"Kevin has assembled the players on this team, and believes in their talent and skill level," Taylor said. "It is my expectation that Kevin will be able to get the most out of our team and our players in his new role as head coach."

Wittman becomes the fourth NBA coach to get the ax this season, joining Oklahoma City's P. J. Carlesimo, Washington's Eddie Jordan and Toronto's Sam Mitchell. (dpa)