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With MacLean Appearing Weak, UCLA Coach Orders Blood Tests

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Times Staff Writer

Is Don MacLean OK?

It depends on who is asked.

“I’m feeling fine,” MacLean said.

Jim Harrick thinks not.

The UCLA basketball coach, concerned that MacLean lost 10 pounds last month as the Bruins played 6 of 8 games on the road, ordered blood tests this week for the freshman forward, who is UCLA’s No. 1 scorer and No. 2 rebounder.

Harrick said that MacLean appears weak and run-down.

“His shot’s been flat,” Harrick said. “He just seems to progressively be just a little bit off. He’s missed some shots that he never missed before, and he’s not quite as fast to the ball rebounding and defensively--just little things that I’ve noticed. And I’m concerned about that. . . .

“I’ve noticed it for a long time. I just hadn’t said anything about it. I talked to his mother about it after the Arizona State game and she noticed it, too. She said, ‘Oh, yeah, that’s not the same kid.’ ”

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When it was suggested that MacLean’s symptoms sounded like mononucleosis, Harrick said: “That’s what bothers me.”

MacLean practiced Tuesday.

“He thinks I’m nuts,” Harrick said.

MacLean will be examined today by assistant team physician James Puffer. Test results will be known Friday.

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