After Smush passed his physical, it was reported that he was headed to Atlanta to join the team for a couple of days of practice before Friday nights game against Atlanta. Before his nightmare in Miami, he was coming off his best two years as the starting PG with the Lakers where he averaged 11 PPG while shooting 44% from the field and 36% from the 3. He was 9th in the NBA in steals and 8th in the NBA in the steals to turnover ratio. He brings size and quickness to the Clippers. He is also a lot more athletic that our current crop of PG's and will bring a little show to an offense that currently is stagnant and boring while the team plays out the string this season.

So, what is the rap against Smush. He is actually a nice guy but has been a head case at times. But I watched him play over 100 games with the Lakers and his reputation is his lack of defense because he can not stay in front of the fastest PG's when they explode with the first step. Smush is quick and quick enough to always be a steals leader, so what is the problem. My thought has always been that he shouldn't crowd the fast PG's out high and back up a half a step giving himself more room to move side to side. It is a containment stategy. If he can solve this one aspect of his game he can actually help any team. He can run the break, shoot from the outside, make athletic plays, and be fun to watch. He came out of the school yards playing the "show" game.

After this road trip Smush will return to Staples Arena and it will be Deja Vu all over again, just in a different uniform. Smush is not likely to be our starting PG next season. But if it works out he could be a valuable back up as a combo guard available to play the 1 and the 2. Go Smush.....this is your last chance Buddy. Don't mess it up!

JamFan

He then went on to proclaim that it was Sterling who nixed two trades last summer that would have improved the team. One trade was Corey Maggette, whose contract is expiring this summer anyway with no guarantee you can sign him, for Jason Terry. Sterling is in love with Maggette so, No Deal.

Dunleavy also wanted to sign former San Antonio free-agent guard Beno Udrih, but the Clippers' bean counter, Andy Roeser, decided Udrih wasn't worth the money it would take to sign him. Beno is one of the most improved players this season, so that was a poor judgement. The problem seems to be that I have always felt that the reason the Clippers have drafted so poorly in past years has been because Sterling was meddling in player personnel matters. That is a problem because Sterling isn't a basketball man. And when you have bean counters instead of basketball people making player decisions, you have a big problem. I wonder if that same bean counter has noticed how badly ticket sales are and TV ratings. The loss of revenue this year must be astounding. It seems evident to me that is the reason that everybody's tempers are so short.

Elgin Baylor and Coach Dunleavy are always going to be a better judge of horse flesh that a real estate investor. Now that Sterling has meddled in the job that he supposedly gave to Coach Dunleavy, and that is to make player and drafting decisions, he wants to cry about how things are not working out. Two days ago in an interview he complained about the job Dunleavy and Baylor were doing and Baylor was apparently on the other end of the room. He went on to say if things didn't get better and they didn't make the playoffs this season, changes would be made, suggesting that Dunleavy or Baylor could be gone. Dunleavy implied again yesterday that Sterling just doesn't know what he is talking about and doesn't know basketball by saying that the Clippers would have to go 34 -10 the rest of way to make the playoffs which is not a practical thought under the current circumstances. "Where we are today as far as making the playoffs, nobody in their right mind would bet on that."

As far as future decisions on player personnel matters, "You give me the budget," Dunleavy said, "and I'm going to be OK with it. I'm not asking anyone to go to the luxury tax." "But if we gather information and put deals in place that I think benefit the team and somebody who is not in basketball operations disagrees with it, sorry, you've just taken it out of my hands."

So, the the family fued begins. The battle lines have been drawn. The only way this can be fixed is by Sterling getting out of the way. I have not always been sure about Coach Dunleavy's decisions on drafting, trades and free agent signings, but now I am not so sure those decisions were Dunleavy's to make on his own. But one thing is for sure, Dunleavy knows more about players than Sterling and the bean counter. Putting a good team together is hard enough without having to get the approval of the owner and FO people who have no clue.

Jam Fan

He was honored as the MVP of the All Star Game where he scored 26 points on 7 of 8 from the 3. This was after he had just placed second in the 3 Pt shooting contest during All Star weekend. One scout said, if he shoots the 3 and hits the 3, there just isn't much you can do about it.

http://www.interbasket.net/players/zhizhi.jpg

JamFan

An MRI exam in Los Angeles on Saturday performed by team physician Dr. Tony Daly revealed the extent of the injury.

He sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament, a stabilizing ligament within the center of the knee, and also tore his lateral meniscus, cartilage around the knee. He is scheduled to meet with Daly again Monday and his surgery will probably take place within 10 days, once the swelling in his leg subsides.

"He has worked hard and this was the year he was getting an opportunity to play and the last couple of games he was playing well for us," Coach Mike Dunleavy said. "Hopefully, he has a speedy recovery and bounces back."

Rehabilitation usually takes six months for a torn ACL, which would put Davis on track to return for summer league. Trainer Jasen Powell said he talked to Davis on Saturday and said his spirits were high.

"Once he found out the extent of the injury, he kept his same calmness," Powell said. "He was a hard worker before the injury and I don't expect anything to change."

Davis, a second-year forward from Michigan State, averaged 2.5 points and 2.1 rebounds in 22 games, but was coming into his own recently, scoring 10 points twice in the last seven games. He said his confidence was growing with more playing time and he even called for the ball in the first quarter of Friday's game before nailing a jump shot.

Read the entire story

Guard Richie Frahm, who was cut by the Phoenix Suns before the season, was signed to a non-guaranteed contract to fill the spot on the roster.

The organization is concerned over the lingering injury to point guard Sam Cassell, who has missed the last eight games because of a strained left calf, and may seek help at that position.

Patterson was the only Clipper whose salary was not guaranteed. His one-year contract of $770,610 would have become guaranteed on Saturday.

He is coming off a career year for the Milwaukee Bucks, where he averaged career highs in points at 14.7 and rebounds with 4.7.

Patterson, 6-foot-5 and 223 pounds, is considered an undersized forward but an aggressive defender.

He waited deep into the off-season, looking to sign a large free-agent contract, but found the market frigid.

Instead, he signed for the veteran's minimum with the Clippers after forward Elton Brand sustained his Achilles' tendon injury.

Patterson started five of the Clippers 21 games, including the season opener against the Golden State Warriors, when he was charged with the task of defending Warrior point guard Baron Davis.

Entire Article.

Jerry is reportedly recovering from a golfing accident where a golf cart tipped over and pinned him underneath for about 15 minutes. But that didn't keep him from coming on down to visit with Clippers GM Elgin Baylor. Unconfirmed reports say he briefly addressed the players and watched one of the practices on Thursday.

Elgin Baylor and Jerry West are old friends going back to the days when they played together for the Los Angeles Lakers. They were one of the best "one-two punch" tandems to ever play the game. Jerry could drill it from the outside and Baylor made a living driving to the hoop. He was unstopable. Baylor had one of the best stretches ever recorded in the history of the NBA where he was going for 50-60 points every night with around 20 rebounds. His career was cut short because of injuries. Jerry went on to become the NBA's logo. Both are legends.

Jerry, while the GM of the Lakers made great trades over his career. His first big trade was to bring Kareem Abdul Jabbar to the Lakers. Most notably, he engineered that trade that brought the draft pick used to draft Magic Johnson. Also traded chump change for Kobe Bryant. The biggest trade was for Shaq, who joined Kobe and brought three championships to the Lakers. Reportedly stressed out or burned out, Jerry retired from the Lakers only to resurface as the GM of the Memphis Grizzlies, where he enjoyed only limited success. Recently many have believed that Jerry would come back to the Lakers in some capacity, especially with Kobe asking for his return. So far, it hasn't happened.

So one has to wonder why Jerry made the trip to check out what was going on with the Clippers? What was Elgin and Jerry talking about? Old times? Or maybe the future of the Clippers organization? Maybe, what role Jerry West could play in the Clippers scheme of things? Player consultant? Trademeister? Maybe play a role in the Maggette for Pau Gasol trade? Who knows? If he comes to work for the Clippers, are we going to see the Maggette and Thorton traded for Kobe? Just dreaming!

JamFan...aka Don Allen

After being traded to the New York Knicks in a 5 player deal, Dan has accepted a buyout from the Knicks and will be taking a physical today in LA. No announcement has been made, but it is expected that he will be in training camp with the Clips on Thursday.

You have to wonder if this scenario had something to do with the Clips trading Jared Jordan to the Knicks at the exact same time they were buying out Dickau and the Clips picking him up.

Dan is a pure up tempo point guard who hasn't as yet had a starting role, so his minutes have been limited. If you project his career numbers over 40 minutes, he would score 15 PPG while distributing 8 APG. His 40% from the field and 34% from the 3, is good enough so long as he is getting his assists.

Bringing in Dan, makes one wonder how much confidence the Clippers have in Sam, Brevin Knight, and Guillermo Diaz. Sam and Brevin get hurt a lot, so maybe they are thinking that if they do get hurt, they do not want to have to rely on a raw rookie Guillermo Diaz. Also, Sam is in the final year of his contract. And Shaun's Livingston's return to the team is uncertain. The most important thing is that if Dickau's contract is guaranteed, and no trades are made before the beginning of the season, there literally are no roster spots available for Diaz and Korolev.

Only time will tell what Dickau's role will be on the team, but he will be fun to watch. He is another young speedster who will fit into Coach Dunleavy's new found committment to an up tempo game. I can't see Sam leading a run and gun game, so are we going to have two offenses? One, when Sam is on the floor, and another when any other PG is running the show?

Today could be the day. The Clippers long search for a PG, not only to replace the injured Shaun Livingston, but also to support the ageing Sam Cassell, could be over today as Steve Francis, whose contract has been bought out by Portland, will decided between Miami and LA.

Playing time seems to the overiding concern for The Franchise. But could his relationship with Cat Mobley, whom he played with in Houston, be that which tips the scales in favor of the Clippers. Will the hugfest between Cat and The Franchise be revived in LA?

Stay tuned

Jamfan

Paul Davis finished up his solid Summer League campaign with a respectable 16 points and 7 rebounds. Over the 5 games he averaged 12 points (45% FG) and 8 boards. Paul managed only 1 block the entire league, however, and at times shied away from contact down low with his shots. But it was nice to see him shooting well from the outside, and playing hard in general.

Jared Jordan didn't put up great numbers tonight but time and time again he was able to get his teammates open looks. In the fourth quarter alone he setup Abukar for 3 or 4 open jumpers- unfortunately all those shots clanged off the rim. Overall Jared averaged 4 points, 5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds a game. Defensively he struggled at times against quicker guards, but I would not be surprised to see him play some important minutes this year for the team.

Guillermo Diaz had yet another rough shooting night- 2 of 8 for 6 points. In the 5 games he shot only 31% and averaged 10 points, 3 rebounds, and 1.4 assist/game. He is athletic and is a terrific free throw shooter, but he certainly didn't help himself in these games in his quest to make the team. He might have a chance if he plays drastically better during training camp & the pre-season.

Ivan Radenovic finally got an opportunity to play some meaningful minutes tonight. He showed a nice shooting touch and made all 3 of his shot attempts, and ended up having 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. He seems like a pretty unselfish player, but a bit lacking on strength. At this point he appears like a smaller version of Paul Davis.

Mohamed Abukar had a nightmarish game tonight as he missed a ton of open shots, going 2 for 13 overall. Despite his struggles this game he ended up shooting a respectable 43% FG for the summer league and averaged 9 points and 3 rebounds. He would be another long shot to make the team.

Mike Gansey didn't shoot well tonight but had an impact while he was out there with 6 points, 7 boards, and 2 assists. He seems like a heady player who has a chance to make it in the NBA if he can improve the consistency on his outside shot. His play reminds you a little bit of Brent Barry, except Brent is taller, more athletic, and a better shooter.

Will Conroy had a solid game with 4 assists. He is a steady point guard who's not going to make too many mistakes. At this point though Jared Jordan looks to be the better PG, so Will's shot at making the team in October will probably be slim.

So that is it for the summer league- it was fun and exciting watching these Clipper prospects play and seeing what they could bring to the team. Pretty soon we should find out which free agent(s) the team will find. USA Basketball is also around the corner and we might get to see EB in action.

Overall it was a solid team effort against a talented Grizzly summer league team. The Clippers will finish their schedule with a game vs. the Kings on Sunday. That game will be web-only, but it was definitely nice being able to watch this game on regular TV.

Jared Jordan was impressive once again running the team. Despite having just 3 points and 6 assists he was the engine that made things go. The guy is a simply TRUE point guard with amazing vision. He made some passes out there that would impress even Steve Nash or Jason Kidd. When he went out of the game in the first quarter the Rockets immediately went on a huge run to lead by 16. Defensively Jared held his own against the lightning-quick Aaron Brooks, though Brooks did hit a pair of 3's in his mug. Will Conroy was solid but quiet out there. As for Guillermo Diaz- he had a really tough go of it out there especially when he was playing the point. On several pick-n-rolls instead of passing to the open teammate he used the screen to shoot long jumpers instead. His PG skills are definitely very shaky.

Mike Gansey had another nice game. He hit a couple of 3's and played pretty solid D. The guy is definitely a scrappy player. Abukar started out cold but turned it on in the second half. Like Thornton he didn't hesitate to shoot the J. Pretty solid game overall with 12 points on 5 of 10 shooting and 3 boards.

Korolev didn't play, so maybe we'll see him the next game. Here are the box scores for tonight's game.

Overall it was a nice opportunity to see the Clipper draft picks as well as Paul Davis in action. Let's see if we'll see Kaman and Korolev play some minutes on Tuesday.

2007 LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS NBA SUMMER LEAGUE ROSTER
NUM	PLAYER	POS	HT	WT	DOB	FROM	2006-07
34	Mohamed Abukar	F	6’10”	229	1/1/85	San Diego St.	San Diego St.
22	Brandon Bowman	F	6’ 9”	223	9/15/84	Georgetown	Bakersfield (NBDL)
10	Will Conroy	G	6’2”	195	12/8/82	Washington	Clippers
40	Paul Davis	C	6’11”	270	7/21/84	Michigan State	Clippers
2	Guillermo Diaz	G	6’2”	185	3/4/85	Miami	CEZ Nymburk (Czech Rep.)
20	Mike Gansey	G	6’4”	205	12/21/82	West Virginia
25	Jared Jordan	G	6’2”	187	10/14/84	Marist	Marist
35	Chris Kaman	C	7’0”	265	4/28/82	Central Michigan	Clippers
15	Daniel Santiago	C	7’1”	256	6/24/76	St. Vincent	Unicaja Malaga (Spain)
31	Amara Sy	F	6’8”	240	8/28/81	France	ASVEL Villeurbanne (France)
55	Ivan Radenovic	F	6’10”	244	6/10/84	Arizona	Arizona
12	Al Thornton	F	6’8”	220	12/7/83	Florida State	Florida State

2007 LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS NBA SUMMER LEAGUE SCHEDULE
July 5:	Mini-Camp	6:00-8:00 PM	Spectrum Club South Bay
July 6:	Mini-Camp	*10:00 AM-12:00 PM 6:00-8:00 PM	Spectrum Club South Bay
July 7:	Mini-Camp	*10:00 AM-12:00 PM 6:00-8:00 PM	Spectrum Club South Bay
July 8:	vs. Denver	7:00 PM	COX Pavilion
July 9:	Practice	3:00-5:00 PM	Durango High School
July 10:	vs. Houston	7:30 PM	Thomas and Mack Center
July 11:	Practice	12:00-2:00 PM	Thomas and Mack Center
July 12:	vs. Minnesota	7:30 PM	Thomas and Mack Center
July 13:	vs. Memphis	3:00 PM	COX Pavilion
July 14:	Practice	12:00-2:00 PM	Thomas and Mack Center
July 15:	vs. Sacramento	7:30 PM	Thomas and Mack Center

*Please note that media availability during the Clippers mini-camp from July 5 – July 7 will be following the early practice sessions only.

From DraftExpress:

But the ability to run a team is certainly developed above the shoulders, and tends to translate over better than other tools. Jordan might be undersized and a step slow, but this week he proved once and for all just what a special point guard he was at Marist and will be as a professional. The first two games were run almost to perfection – Jordan handled more athletic defenders with relative ease, created basket after basket with crisp full court passing and dazzling looks from within offensive sets.

While Jordan’s shooting percentages weren’t ideal at the NCAA level, that could have had a lot to do with his leading role. In this setting, he did a phenomenal job of picking his spots to look for his own. He didn’t light it up from the outside, but showed off improved form on his jumper and was deadly in the midrange. Almost never did he force the action, but was able to burn defenses that dared him to score quite easily. At the end of the day, he was as impressive as any point guard in the camp.

Everyone’s favorite draft prospect here in Orlando (at least amongst the media and staff members) had another solid outing in his final performance at the pre-draft camp, leading his team to its third straight win. Despite lacking an incredible first step, Jordan got into the paint again and again, utilizing terrific ball-handling skills, hesitation moves and crafty spins to force defensive rotations and find the open man instantaneously as soon as they freed up. He also did a nice job running the pick and roll, and pushed the ball up the floor when given the opportunity to do so. He’s an old-school player who doesn’t score a ton of points (really lacking a steady 3-point shot, a consistent pull-up mid-range jumper and a more reliable floater he can go to) but he did put some score some points late in the game when his team really needed a bucket. On one occasion he spun intelligently into the paint and leaned back for a very clutch Steve Nash-esqe fallaway jumper to put his team up by one.

Defensively, Jordan struggled a bit with the explosiveness of Dominic James, not really having the lateral quickness to stay in front of him. Most of the scouts we spoke with still didn’t come away convinced from the excellent showing Jordan had here at the pre-draft camp, citing his poor physical attributes (size, strength, athleticism) and the liability he might present as a defender, perimeter shooter and shot-creator late in the game or shot-clock. Still, it only takes one team to like you, and Jordan gave all 30 of them plenty of food for thought in his excellent week here.

From NBADraft.net:

Strengths: Has a lot of point guard abilities such as the ability to control tempo, great court vision, high basketball IQ and veteran leadership … Patient player who keeps his dribble alive instead of over-penetrating and forcing passes … Great standstill shooter from the perimeter who can convert when left open … Surprising rebounder despite his strength/athleticism for his position … Strong player who understands how to use his body to shield off defenders on drives to the basket … Pesky perimeter defender, thanks to his footwork and anticipation skills … Hustler who has no problem doing the dirty work like diving on the floor for loose balls … Constantly looks to push the ball up the court to ignite the fast break … Great decision maker with the ball in his hands … Plays the game with a great deal of intensity and determination … Has no problem handling most defensive pressure due to his calm demeanor … Has three point range on his jumper … Decent finisher on his drives to the basket and can finish with either hand … Does an excellent of distributing to open teammates …

Weaknesses: Although decently quick, Jordan struggles to gain full separation from his defender … Inconsistent jump shooter who can go through big periods of hot/cold streaks …Could struggle to defend the NBA point guards due to his average lateral quickness …Not a great at shooting off the dribble or working off screens … Doesn’t have the body type that the NBA covets while listed at 6-2, could be shorter and lacks strength … To compound matters his arms aren’t long enough to make up for his average quickness … Has NBA range but lacks consistentcy to make 3s with regularity … Potential may be limited as he doesn’t appear to have very far to go before he reaches the ceiling … Can be a little turnover prone which to his credit is due in part to his team’s personnel as he is the only quality ball handler …

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Nice SI.com Article: [excerpt] The legend of Jared Jordan From the time he saw a tiny kid whipping passes to men, the author knew he was watching a basketball prodigy. Now he is convinced Marist star Jared Jordan may be the next Steve Nash.

As for Jordan's personal hoop dreams, in April he signed with BDA Sports Management, and since then he's been working out under the supervision of agent Kevin Bradbury, getting ready for the predraft camp in Orlando and for workouts with individual teams. Bradbury anticipates nine or 10 of them. Rumors are that Phoenix, San Antonio, the Clippers, Detroit and Washington are in the mix.

BDA handles Steve Nash, Carmelo Anthony, and a bunch of other marquee NBA stars. It also handles Taylor Coppenrath, Toby Bailey, and other one-time NBA hopefuls currently enjoying life in Europe. How good is Jared Jordan, really? In late February Chad Ford, the NBA draft analyst for ESPN, called Jared "an early second-round steal" who might even go late in the first round. "The dude," he wrote on his blog, "knows how to play."

"Jared Jordan will get a long hard look from the NBA," Fraschilla predicts. With his ability to run an offense, Fraschilla says, Jared could in fact turn out to be the next John Stockton. "Or he could be a great college point guard playing in Italy."

Jared Jordan Video Clips:

Nice Dish

Jared Jordan vs. Taurean Green in a workout for the Wizards

Cuts and makes a Layup

Makes a Nice Dish to an open teammate for a 3

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College Stats

NBADraft.net:

Strengths: Physically Thornton is a jaw dropper type of athlete … Because of the high energy level and aggressiveness Thornton plays with, he draws a good number of fouls from opposing players … Has developed his upper body strength well and possesses an NBA ready body … Does a great job of getting rebounds out of position thanks to his leaping ability and foot speed … Runs the court like a guard … Is a threat in transition where he is a tremendous finisher … Loves to face-up the opposing defender and blow by them using his length and explosive first step … Excellent lateral quickness enables him to be a very good help defender … Owns a great set of hands that allows him to catch passes without problem, even bad passes … Possesses three point range on his shot … Converts with ease around the basket … Despite being a senior that is a year older than most he has a load of potential that he has yet to scratch … Versatile player who will be a match-up problem for most defenders … Has developed into a great free throw shooter …

Weaknesses: Despite his physical gifts he’s not the rebounder one would expect … Ball handling ability is satisfactory at the collegiate level but will clearly need to be refined as he is prone to turnovers … Defensively while he is a adequate shot blocker, he still bites too often on pump fakes … Mid-range shooting has improved but is still not consistent … Back to the basket skills are still a work in progress … Although he is an extremely talented player his ability to fit a position could be a concern … Despite his age, his fundamentals and basketball IQ are still not yet there as he often relies more on his athleticism … Lacks the court vision to be a real factor as a passer … Tends to get frustrated at times and force shots that aren’t there … Has a bad habit of getting out of control on his drives to the basket … Will need to focus on developing his post footwork as it is unrefined ...

DraftExpress:

What makes Thornton even tougher to guard however is his remarkable first step for a 6’7 player. He is too quick for opposing power forwards to stay in front of and too skilled on the blocks for a small forward to defend. The Florida native has shown the ability to absolutely smoke big men off of the dribble and get to the rim, especially when going to his right. In the low post, he generally goes towards his left shoulder for a turnaround jumper, but does a pretty adequate job of actually feeling his defender out and taking what the defense gives him.

We briefly touched on Thornton’s athleticism when mentioning his first step, but there is so much more to his athletic prowess then that. He is an incredibly quick leaper, often getting off the ground twice before his opponent is able to leap once. This also allows him to score over taller, longer opponents such as Brandan Wright and Josh McRoberts. His leaping ability is quite freakish, although he relies on his hops a bit more then you’d like when it comes to his rebounding. Thornton does not do a remarkable job boxing out, attempting to outleap other power forwards in an effort to coral rebounds. While this has worked to the tune of 7.2 rebounds per game this year, he would be much closer to 10 rebounds per contest if he chose to box out from time to time, and put in slightly more effort on a consistent basis.

On the offensive end, Thornton is a downright atrocious passer. He is averaging less then 1 assist per game on the year, and is sporting a .33/1 assist to turnover ratio. He just doesn’t really seem to have a good feel for finding the open man, and often dribbles with his head down. His ball-handling ability has also been a question mark, considering that some view him as a full time small forward prospect. While he will never be a guy who breaks players down with a remarkable crossover or inside out dribble, he is completely adequate as a quick two to three dribble threat, and has no problem creating space for himself off of the dribble when need be.

Many have questioned what position Thornton will play at the next level, but it has been made evident this season that he is capable of playing both forward positions in spurts in the NBA. The Shawn Marion comparisons are inevitable, with remarkably similar athleticism, first steps, and quick leaping ability to go along with lack of a true position on the floor. He would be best fitted in an up and down style of play, where he would be able to utilize his athletic abilities and length to the fullest capabilities.

Jacksonville Times Union:

Strengths: Thornton's 42-inch vertical - the best among all players at the NBA's Orlando pre-draft camp - is indicative of his athleticism. An energetic player and hard worker, Thornton improved measurably each season, and he's arguably the second-best scorer in the draft behind Texas' Kevin Durant.

Thornton must improve his ball-handling and add to his offensive repertoire, instead of relying solely on athletic ability to beat opponents.

What they're saying

FSU coach Leonard Hamilton: "He's very capable of being an All-Star. I say that without any reservation."

Yvan Kelly, Seattle SuperSonics scout: "He's shown me to be a really hard worker. He came in with some very great natural athletic ability, and I think he's developed into a very good basketball player. ... I think he's the sleeper of the draft."

Here's a Youtube video of some of Al's highlights in college:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irnnHLhsG34

By JOHN NADEL, AP Sports Writer, Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Sam Cassell would love to have a rookie point guard to take under his wing. He just might get his wish.

Cassell realizes that best case scenario, a point guard with the ability to help the Los Angeles Clippers next season will be available when their turn comes Thursday in the first round of the NBA draft.

That would be at No. 14 and, of course, there's no way to know if that will happen.

That player presumably would serve as a backup to Cassell, who said this week he's healthier now than at any point of last season and expects to be in even better shape when training camp begins in October.

"Whoever they draft, I'll open up my arms to them," Cassell said. "I don't get into the draft thing. How many guys come out of college ready to help you win, especially at a key position?

"Like I helped Shaun (Livingston), I'll help him as much as I can."

Livingston, the fourth overall pick in the 2004 NBA draft, underwent reconstructive surgery on his left knee last March and isn't expected back until midway through next season at the earliest.

"His situation has us thinking about point guards," Clippers coach Mike Dunleavy said. "We've got to protect ourselves at that position."

The 21-year-old Livingston has been hampered by a variety of injuries in his three years with the Clippers, and hasn't been able to play a full season.

With Cassell slowed by several ailments, Jason Hart manned the point guard position for the most part late last season, when the Clippers fell just short in their quest for a playoff berth. Hart is an unrestricted free agent and might not be back.

"I think there's a guy we would like to get," Dunleavy said regarding the draft without identifying the player he has in mind. "You just don't know. It's not out of the realm of possibility."

Among those who have worked out for the Clippers this month are point guards Acie Law IV of Texas A&M, Javaris Crittenton of Georgia Tech, Aaron Brooks of Oregon and Jared Jordan of Marist.

Law, Crittenton and Mike Conley Jr., of Ohio State are considered the three best at that position in this draft. It's possible all three will be gone when the Clippers make their first pick.

"We're just looking for a good player — a player who will fit into the system," Clippers general manager Elgin Baylor said. "We're looking for someone who can come in and give us some playing time. You get into trouble looking for a particular need. We've looked at every position.

"Only time will tell. I think it's a good draft, a deep draft. There are several guys we like. You just can't focus on one guy."

Baylor acknowledged last season was a disappointment for a team coming off a year in which it fell one win shy of playing in the Western Conference finals for the first time.

"They know they have to redeem themselves from last year," he said of the current Clippers nucleus that includes Cassell, Elton Brand, Chris Kaman, Corey Maggette and Cuttino Mobley.

Cassell, who turns 38 in November, said his goal is to play two more seasons.

"I'm feeling that good right now," he said.

"He's back in here doing all the work he needs to do to get himself ready," Dunleavy said. "You can always judge Sam by the conversation. When he's loud and talking a lot, you know he feels good. He's been kind of yappy."

Cassell admitted he called Brand at the end of the season and said because he didn't do what was necessary, he was so embarrassed he had to get out of town.

That's motivation for next year.

"My abdominal muscle caused most of my pain and anguish," Cassell said. "It's healed up. My back feels fine. The foot's been healed up.

"At the end of the season, I was 203 (pounds). I'm 196 right now. At the beginning of training camp, I'll be at 192."

When asked what he hoped to accomplish next season, Cassell replied: "Do what I did when I'm healthy, be the spoon that stirs the coffee. I think my teammates need me.

"We're going back to the playoffs. That's not even a question. If I play 75 games, we're going back to the playoffs."

Baylor said he didn't believe there was any possibility they'd make a deal to move up from No. 14 in the first round. The Clippers also have the 45th overall pick.

Because the Clippers did not make the playoffs and Brand's commitment with the USA senior national team does not begin for several weeks, theoretically he is on vacation.

This day, though, Brand is immersed in his work at Gibraltar Films, a company he co-owns with his partner, Steve Marlton.

Exhibiting multitasking at its finest, Brand fields calls on both phones, launches the Internet on his PC and makes entries on the laptop — all the while fielding questions from a visitor ranging from film to footwork, from screens to screen works, from real-estate deals to real disappointment.

"I can't just sit around," Brand said. "I have to do something. I take three weeks off after the season, tops. But even then, I'm running or lifting or doing something to stay active."

It is a workday that began at 7 a.m. with a one-hour weight-lifting session, followed by another 90 minutes in the gym to shoot and work on other aspects of his game. A shower, then lunch, and soon after, Brand arrived at his office.

"I don't come here every day," Brand said. "But if I have meetings, I could be here until 6:30. Other days, it could be 10 minutes and then out. Those are the perks, when you're president of the company."

Brand's current project is a full-length feature film titled "Rescue Dawn." It is a story taken from the true life of Dieter Dengler, an American captured during the Vietnam War. Written and directed by Werner Herzog, the film originally was a documentary short. It gained international attention at several film festivals. Brand and Marlton became interested two years ago. The script was rewritten, and it was off to Thailand for shooting.

"I've loved movies all my life," Brand said. "I can remember waiting in line for 'Rocky III' and going with my family to see the 'Ninja Turtles.' Growing up, I couldn't afford to go to the movies a lot. But when I did go, I'd occasionally do the double-dipper at the theater-plex, you know, go see one movie, then wander over to another theater to see another movie."

Brand also maintains an active role in his nonprofit Elton Brand Foundation, which he created. Among its accomplishments is a learning and activity center in Brand's hometown of Peekskill, N.Y.

Basketball, however will be his focus until the day he retires, Brand said.

"Winning a championship is my ultimate goal," he said. "I'd trade an Oscar to just borrow someone's championship ring."

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Dunleavy has coached more than 1,000 games in the NBA — his record is 550-566 — and he worked a season as a general manager (Milwaukee Bucks, 1996-97). He also spent two years, after he retired as a player, working for Merrill Lynch on Wall Street.

"If I had stayed with that," Dunleavy says, "I'd be making more money than I am now."

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Dunleavy remains amazed at how he got to the Lakers.

"It started in the summer of '88," he says. "I was out here to watch some Summer League games and I saw West in the bleachers. I asked if I could talk to him sometime. I had never met him before."

Dunleavy says West invited him to sit down right then, and when Dunleavy asked whether he absolutely needed to be a No. 1 assistant somewhere in the league before getting consideration for a head job, he was stunned by West's response.

"He said I did not have to do that, and added, 'As a matter of fact, if Pat Riley were to resign tomorrow, you'd be the first guy I'd call.' "

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Next season will be Dunleavy's fifth as Clippers coach, and while Kobe and the Lakers are fussing and feuding, the second-best player in the city, Elton Brand, is quietly preparing to make sure there is no repeat of his mediocre 2006-07 season. Dunleavy also says he and Corey Maggette have begun to address a failure to communicate that split them badly last season.

"Corey and I understand each other better now," Dunleavy says. "I think our relationship is good."

Maggette finished last season strong, and Dunleavy also hopes center Chris Kaman will return to form and Shaun Livingston will return to health.

"Mostly, I don't even want to talk about last season," Dunleavy says. "It's time to go on."

But quietly, so as not to entice Kobe down off his soapbox.

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2007 Vegas Summer League Game Schedule:

Friday July 6th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM - San Antonio vs. Philadelphia

3PM - Dallas vs. Seattle*

5 PM - Memphis vs. China*

7 PM - Boston vs. Portland*

Saturday July 7th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM – Golden St. vs. New Orleans

3 PM - Detroit vs. Philadelphia

5 PM – San Antonio vs. Cleveland

7 PM - China vs. Sacramento

Sunday July 8th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM – Dallas vs. Portland

3 PM – LA Lakers vs. Milwaukee

5 PM - China vs. Cleveland*

7 PM – Denver vs. LA Clippers*

Monday July 9th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM – San Antonio vs. Boston*

3 PM - Detroit vs. Memphis*

5 PM - Philadelphia vs. Golden St.*

7 PM - Seattle vs. New York*

Thomas and Mack

5:30 PM - Minnesota vs. New Orleans

7:30 PM - Cleveland vs. Phoenix

Tuesday July 10th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM - Sacramento vs. Washington*

3 PM - Dallas vs. Denver*

5 PM - Philadelphia vs. LA Lakers*

7 PM – New York vs. China*

Thomas and Mack

5:30 PM – San Antonio vs. Golden St.

7:30 PM - Houston vs. LA Clippers

Wednesday July 11th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM – San Antonio vs. Minnesota

3 PM - Washington vs. Detroit*

5 PM - Philadelphia vs. Phoenix*

7 PM - Boston vs. China*

Thomas and Mack

5:30 PM - Seattle vs. Milwaukee

7:30 PM – LA Lakers vs. Portland

Thursday July 12th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM – Denver vs. Detroit

3 PM - Dallas vs. Houston*

5 PM - Memphis vs. Cleveland*

7 PM – New York vs. Sacramento*

Thomas and Mack

5:30 PM – New Orleans vs. Milwaukee

7:30 PM – LA Clippers vs. Minnesota

Friday July 13th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM – New Orleans vs. Phoenix

3 PM - Memphis vs. LA Clippers*

5 PM – Boston vs. Milwaukee*

7 PM – Houston vs. Washington*

Thomas and Mack

5:30 PM - Denver vs. LA Lakers

7:30 PM – Golden State vs. Seattle

Saturday July 14th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM – New York v. Boston*

3 PM – Minnesota vs. Memphis*

5 PM – Cleveland vs. Washington*

7 PM – Dallas vs. Golden State*

Thomas and Mack

3:30 PM - Detroit vs. LA Lakers

5:30 PM – Houston vs. Sacramento

7:30 PM – Phoenix vs. Portland

Sunday July 15th

Cox Pavilion

1 PM – Milwaukee vs. Washington

3 PM – New York vs. Denver*

5 PM – New Orleans vs. Phoenix*

7 PM – Seattle vs. Portland*

Thomas and Mack

5:30 PM - Houston vs. New Orleans

7:30 PM - Sacramento vs. LA Clippers

* Denotes game broadcast on NBA TV

SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Although Theo Papaloukas turns 30 Tuesday, his representatives have let it be known that "three or four" NBA teams have expressed a strong interest in the CSKA guard. The Los Angeles Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Dallas Mavericks are said to be on the interested list.

But a feeling prevails on this side of the Atlantic that Papaloukas' agent might be attempting to drive up his value in Europe with such a tactic and that the limited playing time being experienced by a comparable fellow Euro who made the move at a similar age -- Golden State Warriors point Sarunas Jasikevicius -- actually will convince Papaloukas not to head across the Atlantic.

"He is 30 years old and doesn't want to play 82 games a season," says one scout familiar with the situation. "If he wants to play for five or six years more, that means another 480 games in the NBA or 250 games in Europe. And, actually, you are talking about an even bigger discrepancy because of the longer [NBA] games."

Clippers swingman Corey Maggette on Thursday will undergo an arthroscopic procedure to alleviate the intermittent pain he suffered in his right knee during the 2006-07 season. The condition, although bothersome, did not result in any lost playing time for Maggette during the year.

Clippers’ team physician Dr. Tony Daly, assisted by Dr. Steven Shimoyama, will perform the surgery at the Center for Ambulatory Surgical Treatment (C.A.S.T) in Westwood, California.

In 75 games played on the season, Maggette averaged 16.9 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game.

Clipper MVP: Elton Brand
Even though EB didn't have the stats he had last year, he once again was that stable, consistent force on both ends of the floor. You can even argue that his clutch shooting is improved as he has made more big time shots this season that I can remember.

Clipper Sixth Man of the Year: Quinton Ross
Even though Maggette came off of the bench for much of the year, in the end he was pretty much a starter. Q just does his job, plays hard and never seems to disappoint. He consistently hit the J and night after night guarded some of the best players in the league. He also played 81 games this season compared to 67 last year when he was plagued by back problems. He also improved his FG to 46.7% from 42% and improved his FT % slightly also.

Clipper Defensive Player of the Year: (tie) Elton Brand & Quinton Ross
It's hard to say who was better at the defensive end- EB or Q. Brand mans the paint area while Ross locks up the perimeter. They both made huge plays on D throughout the year. Honorable mention has to go to Cuttino Mobley. Cat gets a lot of deflections and does a good job guarding against taller players.

Clipper Most Improved Player of the Year: Corey Maggette
Corey elevated his game in the second half of the season at the prodding of coach Dunleavy. He committed fewer offensive fouls and did a great job penetrating and dishing. As a result he improved his shooting % to 45.4% and raised his assists per game to 2.8. He also managed to stay healthy for the most part, playing in 75 games- the most he's played in a season as a Clipper.

Clipper Best 3 Point Shooter: (tie) Cuttino Mobley and Tim Thomas
Cat shot 41% while Tim shot 38%. Thomas made 136 while Cat drained 101. They both really turned it on in the last few weeks of the season and contributed mightily to the Clippers' improved play.

Clipper Rookie of the Year: Not Applicable
The only rookies were Paul Davis and Will Conroy, and they didn't play much. Paul did show flashes of good play when he got a chance.

Best Individual Performance: Corey Maggette, Apr. 12 vs. Lakers
Maggette tallied 39 points (career high), 8 rebounds, 9 assists, 4 steals and a block in a thrilling come-from-behind victory against the Lakers in a "road" game. Even after taking a flying knee in the groin in the 4th quarter trying to take a charge, Maggette stayed in and helped finish the come back.

General Manager Elgin Baylor, Coach Mike Dunleavy and Hughes are Kaman's biggest supporters in the organization, and Kaman will rebound, Dunleavy said.

"He knows what we think of him and he knows what we expect of him," Dunleavy said. "His biggest problem this season was either concentration or confidence. He got position, got [good] shots and he didn't finish them.

"He finished them a year ago, and he's got to finish 'em, so he's got to have a big work ethic for us this summer. He has to work, big time, this off-season to shore up areas to make sure he has that confidence to go forward."

Decision-making is an area where Kaman must improve, Dunleavy said.

Instead of shooting jumpers in the 15-foot range, Kaman often tried to get closer to the basket, leading to turnovers or squandered opportunities.

"We're not trying to teach him to have skill, he already has it, we're just trying to make him make better decisions," Dunleavy said. "As he becomes a better decision-maker, he'll be the guy who averages a double-double for us. He'll be the guy who we're willing to pay the money we're paying, and he's going to be worth it."

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The Los Angeles Clippers today signed guard Will Conroy of the Tulsa 66ers of the NBA Development League, it was announced by Vice President of Basketball Operations Elgin Baylor. In a related move, the Clippers waived center Zeljko Rebraca.

Conroy joins the Clippers for the second time this season, as he played two games for Los Angeles this season from Feb. 28 – March 5, 2007. A member of the NBA Development League Second Team, Conroy appeared in 42 games for the Tulsa 66ers, averaging 15.0 points, 10.6 assists and 5.1 rebounds.

Recognized as a 2007 D-League All-Star, Conroy also signed a 10-day contract with the Memphis Grizzlies on Jan. 30, 2007 and played in three games. Conroy averaged 4.0 assists, 2.0 rebounds in 15.5 minutes in his two games with the Clippers this season.

The 6-2, 195 pound point guard was a standout at the University of Washington, leaving the school as the Huskies all-time leader in assists in a career and a season. Originally a walk-on at Washington, Conroy was the first Husky player to ever top 200 assists in a season. The Seattle native also finished his outstanding four-year college career 21st on the Huskies all-time scoring list and led Washington to its first-ever Pac-10 Tournament Championship as a senior in 2004-05 while earning Honorable Mention All-Pac-10 honors.

Conroy played in the NBA Development League last season as well, earning All-NBA Development League Honorable Mention honors in 2005-06.

Rebraca did not play a game for the Clippers in 2006-07, as he was sidelined the entire season due to disc-related lower back discomfort since a training camp physical discovered the injury on Sept. 25, 2006. Rebraca underwent surgery on his lower back to remove herniated disc fragments on Jan. 30, 2007. A five-year NBA veteran who also played with Detroit and Atlanta, Rebraca leaves the Clippers after two seasons that saw him average 5.6 points and 2.9 rebounds in a total of 87 appearances. Rebraca signed with Los Angeles as a free agent in 2004.

[exerpt] am Cassell might miss the remainder of the regular season after his back spasms worsened Saturday night in a 99-86 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers at the Rose Garden.

Cassell, 37, collapsed in the second quarter and did not return. X-rays were negative.

The Clippers planned to schedule an MRI exam today or Monday for Cassell, who probably would be monitored for at least a week before his status is evaluated, team trainer Jasen Powell said.

"I'm going to have to sit down a while and let this heal," Cassell said. "I'm going to need some time, maybe until the playoffs, because I'm hurting right now."

Moving from right to left on defense while guarding Portland's Sergio Rodriguez, Cassell pulled up, grimaced in pain and dropped to the floor with 10 minutes 10 seconds remaining in the second. Play was stopped for several minutes while Powell evaluated Cassell.

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During the four-game streak, Maggette is averaging 23 points, 5.3 assists and shooting 59% from the field, while the Clippers are averaging more than 105 points — 10 points higher than their season average.

"And it's not just the last four games, we've been playing well for a while now, and Corey has been playing great," Chris Kaman said. "In the last 10 games, Corey is having a way better season than he started off having.

"He has been really smart. He's making smart passes, taking good shots and being patient. It's really paying off for him and us."

Problems at the point-guard position prompted Dunleavy to "tweak things a little bit more" on offense.

Although more ball movement has helped to increase production, players said, the playmaking ability of Maggette has made the biggest difference.

"Everybody knows about how he can get to the free-throw line," Brand said. "But the way he's setting everybody else up … that's one of the main reasons why we're playing well."

Maggette's decision-making was a source of frustration in the past for Dunleavy, but it seems things have changed.

"I've said to him in the past, 'Look, if I put the ball in your hands more, there's a responsibility that comes with that. You have to make plays, extra passes and take really good shots,' " Dunleavy said. "I want the ball there because of his ability to get to the rim, get to the free-throw line and make 17- and 18-foot jump shots.

"I don't want it to be there to force the issue, create charges or take tough shots. That's not what we need from him. I want him to just take what's there, and he has been doing a really good job of that."

It's all about making good decisions, Maggette said.

"I'm being patient and making it work," said Maggette, averaging 16.1 points for the season. "I'm making better decisions and better reads. I'm not only trying to put myself in a better [scoring] position, I'm trying to put the other guys on the team in a better position. That's what it's about now."

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