Searching for Some Intensity, Ford Threatens Playing Time

If Coach Chris Ford lives up to his word, some Clipper regulars may find themselves getting more bench time unless they pick up their game.

Frustrated from the Clippers’ five-game losing streak, Ford is running out of patience with his underachieving team.

“I told them not to assume that you have a starting spot and don’t assume your minutes,” said Ford, whose Clippers close a disappointing five-game homestand tonight when they play the Miami Heat at Staples Center.

Over the last couple of practices, the Clippers have had hard scrimmages, numerous shooting drills and Sunday they worked on fundamental defensive drills. Ford, however, was disappointed with his starting unit’s intensity.

“If you’re not willing to compete against your second unit in practice, How are you going to be able to compete against Alonzo Mourning and the Miami Heat?” Ford asked.

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The last time the Clippers had a player participate in an All-Star game was Danny Manning in 1994. This season the Clippers have four players on the Western Conference all-star ballot: Maurice Taylor, Derek Anderson, Lamar Odom and Michael Olowokandi. Since the franchise moved to Los Angeles in 1984, only three players have represented the team in an All-Star game.

TONIGHT

vs. Miami, 7:30

Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Staples Center.

* Radio--KXTA (1150).

* Records--Clippers 4-12; Heat 12-4.

* Record vs. Heat (1999 season)--Did not play.

* Update--Miami has won five in a row over the Clippers, who last defeated the Heat on Dec. 15, 1995. Miami center Alonzo Mourning is off to a strong start, averaging 22.9 points, 9.9 rebounds and 3.56 blocked shots. The Heat has the best record in the Eastern Conference. Three of the Clippers’ four victories have been against teams from the East.

* Tickets--(213) 745-0500 or (213) 480-3232.