Baylor Dismisses Early Trade Talk

As a quiet off-season has turned into a quiet training camp, General Manager Elgin Baylor has been content to let the Clippers evolve on the court. He has been eager to see how things shake out in the days leading up to the season opener Oct. 30 against the San Antonio Spurs.

Roster moves haven’t been discussed, mainly because Baylor dismissed any and all suggestions that he might be better off trading players before the season begins.

“It would be foolish to do something before you see who’s the best at each of the positions,” he said when asked about the possibility of a trade.

“We do have 12 players under guaranteed contracts, but the most important thing is to have the players we want here,” he added. “I like our chemistry. The players all want to be here. They’re looking forward to turning things around.”

Baylor, Clipper general manager since 1986, dismissed any notion that this looms as a season of redemption for him.

“What’s behind me is behind me,” he said. “I’m looking forward to this season. This is the most talented team we’ve ever had. I’m looking forward to a great season. We’re good enough to be a playoff contender. That’s our goal. Once you get in the playoffs, anything can happen.

“I’m excited because we’re good enough. It’s not like we’re guessing here. We know we have the talent and the ability. We just have to go out and do it.”

The Clippers, 4-2 in exhibition play, get a chance to show off to the home fans tonight, when they play the Phoenix Suns at 7:30 at Staples Center.

Their first six exhibitions were on the road.

Wednesday, the team returns to Palm Desert for five days of workouts at the College of the Desert.

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Baylor said he is doing well after foff-season hip replacement surgery.

He has been walking with a cane, but hopes to resume playing golf and tennis within a few months.

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With a 13-3 record at Staples Center after Feb. 1, the Clippers were one of the league’s best on their home court down the stretch last season. Only the New York Knicks at 16-3 and the Suns at 15-3 were better in that span.

The Clippers begin this season with 23 of their first 30 games at Staples Center.