Odom Is Point Guard as Lineup Juggled

It has finally happened. Rookie Lamar Odom has been moved to point guard.

In attempt to right a wobbly ship, Coach Chris Ford switched Odom from small forward and moved Derek Anderson back to shooting guard for the Clippers’ latest defeat, an 18-point loss at Indiana on Saturday.

Odom showed some signs of inexperience but for the most part, he looked like a natural NBA point guard.

“He did his usual thing as far as getting the ball and putting it in the right places,” Ford said about Odom’s NBA point-guard debut. “But we were unable to take advantage.”

Odom took the change with expected calmness.

“I really felt good . . . but last couple of games, I’ve been shooting horrible,” Odom said. “My shooting has really [stunk]. We’re not playing well, that’s really obvious.”

To complete the Clippers’ new look, Brian Skinner is now the starting power forward with Maurice Taylor moving to small forward. Michael Olowokandi remains at center.

TONIGHT

vs. Vancouver, 7:30

Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Staples Center.

* Radio--KXTA (1150).

* Records--Clippers 4-16; Grizzlies 4-16.

* Record vs. Grizzlies--0-1.

* Update--The Clippers have not won since two days before Thanksgiving. Seven points has been their biggest lead in any game during their current nine-game losing streak and they have failed to lead in a game twice. Center Michael Olowokandi has averaged 18 points and 12 rebounds the last three games. Vancouver, 1-8 on the road, is led by forward Shareef Abdur-Rahim, averaging 21.2 points and 10.5 rebounds.

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