Expectations Exceed Stark Reality for Team

If the Clippers were playing the San Antonio Spurs in a pickup game, they would have a decent chance based on overall talent. But tonight’s game will be played under NBA rules at Staples Center, not freestyle at Venice Beach.

It’s a problem the Clippers have had all season: Turning their talent into wins.

“We have to keep trying to get better as a team,” forward Lamar Odom said after the Clippers’ 37-point defeat at Utah on Saturday. “Because talent-wise, we’re good, but the hell with talent. I don’t care how good we look like on paper. To me, that makes it even more embarrassing to lose like we have. But what can you do. I’m a rookie . . . I just try and play my role . . . go out and play hard every game. That’s all I can do.”

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Two weeks ago, backup center Keith Closs was getting consistent minutes because of the inconsistent play of starter Michael Olowokandi. Closs, who hardly played over the first six weeks of the season, played at least 13 minutes in seven consecutive games and did well.

Since then, Closs has been back on the bench, playing spot minutes over the last five games because of the improved Olowokandi.

“It’s thrown me off because I want to be out there,” said Closs, who has three points, six rebounds and one blocked shot combined since getting extended minutes in back-to-back losses to the Lakers the first week of January.

“I’m stiff and can’t move too well when I first get out there. It’s like 30 minutes before I get on the court. The layup line doesn’t do it enough. You’re sweating hard and then have to sit for 30 minutes. You’re stone cold.”

TONIGHT

vs. San Antonio

7:30, Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Staples Center.

* Radio--KXTA (1150).

* Records--Clippers 10-26, Spurs 24-14.

* Record vs. Spurs--0-1.

* Update--The Clippers played San Antonio tough when the teams met here in early November, losing by five points. The Spurs have struggled lately, losing two in a row and are 5-5 over their last 10 games. Power forward/center Tim Duncan is third in the league in rebounding (13.4) and fifth in scoring (24.9 points). The Clippers, who will play at Sacramento on Tuesday, have lost seven in a row to the Spurs.

* Tickets--(213) 480-3232