Walker warms up to Heat

Antoine Walker might not be getting blown away by offers, but he got a face-to-face this week with the face of the Miami Heat -- team president Pat Riley.

Walker, a free agent, met with Riley Thursday in what was described by both sides as a feeling-out session. Miami, like most teams, would have to execute a sign-and-trade with the Celtics to give Walker the money he wants.

That presumes the Heat have someone on their roster the Celtics might like -- not named Shaquille O'Neal or Dwyane Wade. Walker's agent, Mark Bartelstein, told the Sun-Sentinel of South Florida there will be ''ongoing conversations" between the Heat and Employee No. 8.

Walker has been a three-time All-Star, but has been unable to land a job. As far as resumes go, he remains one of the more attractive free agents.

PETER MAY