The trip's purpose was to catch up with Karl Malone, the greatest pure power forward ever, who has comfortably settled into retirement with his wife, Kay, and the kids. Life is good for the Mailman, but it seems he's itching to make another delivery.

Checking out Malone as he worked on the ranch, it's clear the awesome physique he used to his advantage during 18 seasons with the Jazz is still intact. Without question, he is buff enough to still compete in the NBA.

Speaking of which, that's the point here. The NBA's second all-time greatest scorer is lacing 'em up again.

After spending the last several weeks contemplating a comeback, the former two-time NBA Most Valuable Player has decided to return for the Jazz's playoff run. The 6-foot-9, 260-pound specimen will join the active roster in the next two weeks.

Party time, down on Main Street.

Malone has declined comment, which is so typical of him, not wanting to discuss his return until later in the week. But it's clear from watching him bank hundreds of jump shots off the wooden backboard on the barn that he's got the touch.

He's even been mumbling a few words during free-throw practice.

Much like the midseason trade for Rony Seikaly nine years ago, Malone could be the missing piece to land the long-awaited championship that we diehards have been clamoring for since Michael Jordan cheated and wasn't caught. Unlike Seikaly, who never bothered to report, Malone can't wait to put on the new Jazz duds.

Although his role isn't exactly clear, the favorite son of coach Jerry Sloan is willing to help any way he can. Drawing on his experience during the last few years in Utah, when he resorted to taking mostly fadeaway jump shots while still managing to smack his feet off the defender, Malone has no problem playing shooting guard.

Considering Sloan's options, sticking a 43-year-old, ex-power forward in the backcourt doesn't seem like such a bad idea. Don't worry about any pouting if he doesn't get enough shots.

And he might even bother to put up resistance rather than allow an uncontested layup, as some 6-11 three-point shooters prefer to do.

Sound too good to be true? Check the date at the top of this page.

At least you're not as gullible as some are on April Fools' Day. Reportedly on this day about 10 years ago, the Portuguese national television network RTP announced the Ministry of Health would perform free breast exams by satellite, causing thousands of women to go out topless.

pjk@

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