Offense Gains New Freedom

The Clippers’ regular-season opener against the Seattle SuperSonics will feature teams that took advantage of the league’s rule changes to promote scoring.

The SuperSonics had one of the highest scoring averages over the exhibition season at 106.9 and the Clippers, who finished among the league’s worst scoring teams last season at 90.4, averaged nearly 103 points in the exhibition season.

The players are enjoying more freedom offensively, thanks to the increased number of defensive traps being used to offset the tougher guidelines on clutching and grabbing in halfcourt sets.

“It’s helped the games get more points, highlights and to become a lot more fun,” Clipper shooting guard Derek Anderson said.

“It’s good that we have that back.”

The Clippers also improved their defense during the exhibition season by limiting opponents to 97 points a game compared to last season’s 99.2, the third highest in the league.

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The Los Angeles Sports Council and Chamber of Commerce will honor the Clippers today at a tip-off luncheon at the Biltmore Hotel. The team and coaching staff will attend with Clipper broadcaster Ralph Lawler serving as the master of ceremonies. The luncheon is open to the public and tickets are $60. There will be a no-host reception and silent auction at 11:30 a.m., followed by lunch at noon. For information call (213) 482-6352.