Reserve Closs Skips Practice

The continuing drama involving Keith Closs and the Clippers continued Thursday when the backup center was a practice no-show.

Closs, who had a minor run-in with Coach Chris Ford after Wednesday’s workout, will be disciplined, according to Ford and Elgin Baylor, vice president of basketball operations.

This is not the first time Closs and the Clippers have been at odds, but his teammates did not seem worried about his absence.

“To us, it’s not a problem because he doesn’t let it affect his play on the court,” shooting guard Derek Anderson said. “He plays hard when he’s out there. That’s all we can ask from him. What he does outside is personal. If he wants any of us to help him, we’re there.”

*

Forward Pete Chilcutt, who signed a 10-day contract on Tuesday, had his second workout with the team Thursday.

Chilcutt, a nine-year veteran, was released Jan. 7 by Utah.

The Clippers plan to use Chilcutt as a backup to power forward Maurice Taylor.

TONIGHT

vs. Minnesota, 7:30

Channel 9

* Site--Staples Center.

* Radio--KXTA (1150).

* Records--Clippers 10-28, Timberwolves 20-16.

* Record vs. Timberwolves--1-0.

* Update--Minnesota has won two in a row and seven of 10 but lost at home to the Clippers on Nov. 17. Despite the new arena, the Clippers rank 28th in home attendance with a 13,034 average.

* Tickets--(213) 480-3232.