Lavin Is Uncertain About Hines’ Status Against Santa Clara

Already expecting to open the season without Baron Davis, even though no official announcement has been made, UCLA is waiting to see whether it will also be without another key backcourt member, Rico Hines.

Hines is among the candidates to temporarily start at one of the wing spots as Earl Watson moves to the point in place of Davis, but a sprained left knee kept him out of both exhibition games last week. That could leave Coach Steve Lavin to choose between Brandon Loyd, the lone senior, and Ryan Bailey, a transfer from Penn State, hoping that the Bruins would get some experience in a lineup that could also include three freshmen.

“I get good reads for Santa Clara,” Lavin said of Hines’ availability Thursday at Pauley Pavilion. “But I imagine even though he might be ready to play in terms of the medical staff, I’m really not sure about his stamina, his wind. When you miss two weeks, it’s hard just to step right back in.”

Said Hines: “It’s feeling a lot better. It’s real strong again.”

His availability, whether for the opening lineup or 10-15 minutes, is a personal issue as well. The injury could mean Hines loses out on a chance to start.

“It hurts me a lot,” he said, not meaning the knee. “I know coach was looking for me to come in and start with Baron out. But Baron could still miss some more time, so there could still be opportunities.”