Odom Tired of Sitting Out, Looking Ahead to Tuesday

Lamar Odom will sit at home tonight and watch his team play on television against the Utah Jazz at Staples Center. It’s something that Odom has had to do for the Clippers’ last four games and it has been killing him.

“Hopefully, this will be the last one I will ever miss because of a suspension,” he said. “Being at home watching the games on TV is all I can do. I’ve been getting really into it. I’m looking forward to it being over. I’m looking ahead to playing against [the Philadelphia 76ers] on [Tuesday]. . . . I’ve definitely been taking care of what I’ve had to do [to be eligible to play against the 76ers.]

Coach Alvin Gentry said he’s glad that his team finally won a game without Odom, defeating the Golden State Warriors on Friday, but added that it has been a difficult stretch for the Clippers. Playing without their leading scorer and rebounder has been difficult for everyone.

“We’ve talked about what [Odom] does when we’re playing,” Gentry said. “He watches the games and wishes he was there--it’s tough. It would be tough for anybody. You know he wants to be there.”

Odom was suspended for violating the league’s anti-drug program.

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Center Michael Olowokandi has a bruised left knee but is expected to play tonight. Rookie shooting guard Quentin Richardson, who did not play Friday against the Warriors because of a viral infection, did not attend Saturday’s workout and is questionable for tonight.

TONIGHT

vs. Utah, 6, Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Staples Center.

* Radio--KXTA (1150).

* Records--Clippers 23-44, Jazz 44-20.

* Record vs. Jazz--0-2.

* Update--The Clippers lost twice to the Jazz within their first five games of the season, including a tough overtime defeat at Staples Center on Nov. 2. Corey Maggette has averaged 16 points and 9.5 rebounds in four starts in place of Odom at small forward.

* Tickets--(800) 462-2849.