Carter on Bench as Trip Begins

With Toronto all-star forward Vince Carter sitting out his third consecutive game because of a strained left quadriceps injury, the Clippers will be seeking their second two-game winning streak of the season when they open a six-game East Coast trip tonight against the Raptors.

The Clippers dished out a season-high 26 assists in an impressive 23-point victory over Golden State on Wednesday, their most lopsided win in almost two years. With Quentin Richardson making his first start at shooting guard, the Clippers got off to one of their best starts of the season, and the rookie from DePaul said he can do better.

“I’m just playing the same way I would if I was coming off the bench,” said Richardson, who had 18 points and eight rebounds against the Warriors in a season-high 43 minutes. “I just try and provide some energy. Defend. Take shots when they are there and rebound. I missed too many shots [against Golden State]. I missed too many free throws [two of six from the line].”

Coach Alvin Gentry most likely will stick with Richardson in the starting lineup with Jeff McInnis, Lamar Odom, Derek Strong and Michael Olowokandi.

“I thought Quentin gave us a big push early in the game [on Wednesday], and Derek Strong did a good job too,” Gentry said. “We just have to try to continue to make our shots, cut down on our turnovers and have [over 20] assists.”

*

With Tyrone Nesby now a Washington Wizard and the Clipper corps of swingmen down one, Corey Maggette’s minutes were expected to increase. However, Maggette didn’t play until the fourth quarter against Golden State and had six points in three minutes. Gentry said he will try to keep the Clippers’ rotation down, which still may mean spotty playing time for Maggette. . . . Power forward Brian Skinner, who returned from the injured list Wednesday, did not play against the Warriors but might tonight.

TONIGHT

at Toronto, 4 PST

Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Air Canada Centre.

* Radio--KXTA (1150), delayed until 6:30 p.m.

* Records--Clippers 5-11, Raptors 8-7.

* Record vs. Raptors (1999-2000)--0-2.

* Update--Toronto has lost its last two games by more than 10 points playing without Carter, who is averaging 27.5 points. The Raptors have won three in a row over the Clippers and hold a 6-3 edge in the all-time series. Odom is coming off his first triple-double of the season and his fourth overall. Odom had 16 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists and three steals against Golden State. Recently acquired Cherokee Parks will be in uniform for the Clippers.