Rogers’ Back Is Sore, Robinson on Crutches

Forward Rodney Rogers sat out practice Friday because of a sore back and probably won’t play in today’s exhibition opener against the Vancouver Grizzlies at the Pond of Anaheim.

Rogers left the Clippers’ training camp in La Jolla and was examined by team physician Tony Daly in Los Angeles, where he was scheduled to undergo an MRI exam.

“We’ll probably let him rest tomorrow,” Coach Bill Fitch said. “It’s just a precaution. We sent him for an MRI to make sure that nothing is wrong.”

Rogers, who reported to camp in the best shape of his career, averaged career-bests of 13.2 points and 5.1 rebounds last season.

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Guard James Robinson was on crutches after spraining his right ankle in practice Friday. A stress fracture was feared, but X-rays were negative.

Robinson, signed to a $10.5-million, five-year contract in August, will be examined by Daly today and may not accompany the Clippers on their four-game, six-day exhibition trip.

“He’s been running on it and if it’s just a sprain, then it will be short lived,” Fitch said. “He’s been hobbled the whole camp but he needed to be here for the learning.”

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Forward Loy Vaught has been bothered by shin splints but he hasn’t missed a practice and is expected to play today. . . . The Clippers reduced their roster to 17, waiving forward Quinn Harwood and swingmen Mark Young and Malcolm Leak, all free agents.