Ford Somewhat Worried About Team Morale

Losing is never fun and the Clippers have had more than their share of it already this season. With a 12-game losing streak to start the year, Coach Chris Ford is concerned about keeping morale up because there are 38 games remaining.

Ford has often been seen pacing the sideline urging his team to keep playing hard and not to get down when bad things happen.

So far, there have not been too many signs regarding the players’ frustrations over losing. The only discipline Ford has had to dish out was when he sat backup center Keith Closs for a game after he voiced his displeasure after being pulled from a game.

“As a coach, I don’t hold grudges but I expect everyone to be professional,” Ford said. “If you’re not going to be professional then we have to take action. I don’t hold anything against anybody.”

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For the first nine games, Ford’s will seemed to help the Clippers stay competitive. In eight of their first nine losses, the Clippers had a chance to win in the fourth quarter. However, that was not the case in their last three blowout defeats.

Ford, however, doesn’t believe his players have already begun to quit.

But he does wonder about their inconsistent effort.

“When I watch the film, I question why aren’t they doing what they’re supposed to be doing on the defensive end of the floor, I question that,” Ford said.

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Forward Maurice Taylor’s knee injury will keep him sidelined for at least a few more days. Taylor is listed as day-to-day because of a right knee sprain and is expected to travel to Texas for the Clippers’ three-game trip this week at Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. . . . Center Michael Olowokandi, put on the injured list because of an ankle sprain, will have to sit out at least four more games under league rules. Olowokandi told Ford that he heals quickly and that he hopes to return next week. . . . Sherman Douglas is also listed as day-to-day because of a groin injury.