Douglas Signs, May Play Tonight

The Clippers signed free-agent guard Sherman Douglas to a one-year, $2.5-million contract Thursday and the veteran point guard may get some playing time tonight in the season opener against the Phoenix Suns at the Sports Arena.

“It was the last minute and obviously the season was [close to] starting. I just wanted the opportunity to come out and play,” said Douglas, who will begin his 10th NBA season after playing for New Jersey last season. “Being familiar with Coach [Chris] Ford, I know the system and I know what he wants and expects from me.”

Douglas played for Ford at Boston and Milwaukee.

Darrick Martin will start tonight at point guard with Pooh Richardson as his backup.

“It’s always a delicate situation any time you step in at somebody’s position,” Douglas said. “You just have to go out and work hard and do what’s best for the team.”

*

Ford said that Michael Olowokandi, the team’s No. 1 draft choice, will not start tonight. Lorenzen Wright will open at center. . . . Rookie forward Brian Skinner and veteran guard Scott Brooks were put on the injured list because of knee injuries. Skinner is expected to be sidelined for at least two weeks and Brooks for at least a month.

TONIGHT

vs. Phoenix, 7:30

* Site--Sports Arena.

* Radio--XTRA (1150).

* Records (1997-98)--Clippers 17-65; Suns 56-26.

* Record vs. Suns (1997-98)--0-4.

* Update--The Suns may be without guard Rex Chapman, who has been slowed by a hamstring injury, but they will have Jason Kidd, Danny Manning, Cliff Robinson and Tom Gugliotta, who signed as a free agent after being courted by the Lakers. The Suns also have brought in Luc Longley from Chicago and Chris Morris from Utah.

* Tickets: (213) 480-3232.