Background: The Clippers were the laughingstock of the NBA until a season ago, when they not only made the playoffs but defeated Denver in the first round. They also pushed Phoenix to the limit in a seven-game second-round series. After re-signing guards Sam Cassell and forward-center Chris Kaman, the Clippers were considered a possible championship contender with all-star Elton Brand already on their roster.
What’s up? The Clippers have been the NBA’s biggest disappointment, with a 13-16 record. Believe the hype about trade rumors involving Corey Maggette, who is being shopped around the league and wants out. The Maggette situation going public added another major distraction to a team that didn’t need one. The Clippers would trade Maggette to Sacramento for Ron Artest in a heartbeat if the Kings agree. Philadelphia laughed at the Clippers’ overtures for Kyle Korver and Rodney Carney. Cassell is also upset he is not starting over Shaun Livingston.
What’s next? Los Angeles has no chemistry, lack guards who can dribble or penetrate, is poor defensively and is playing selfishly. The big men aren’t blocking shots anymore. Entering Friday, only Charlotte (.299 percentage) and Sacramento (.305) were shooting worse from 3-point land than the Clippers (.306). Brand is also tired from playing with Team USA in the 2006 world championships in Japan. Other than that, things are great.
Spears’ take: The old Clippers are back and don’t expect a playoff run. Until Maggette is moved, things are going to continue to go south. Hey, comedians, you can officially start the Clippers jokes again.
