Miles Is Questionable

Forward Darius Miles did not practice Monday because of an infection. His status was termed questionable by the Clippers for tonight’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Swingman Lamar Odom also did not practice and was scheduled to have an MRI exam on his sprained right wrist. X-rays taken last week were negative. He is not expected to play tonight.

Miles had filled in at small forward for Odom, who was sidelined the last two games.

Guard Eric Piatkowski is expected to start for the first time since suffering a strained right hip Nov. 30 against the Denver Nuggets. He seemed surprised when reporters broke the news to him after practice.

“It was just so frustrating sitting on the bench,” Piatkowski said. “I can’t stand it. This is my eighth year and I’ve rarely missed any games. It was weird. It was a different feeling pulling up to the arena. Usually, you’re fired up. When you’re not playing, it feels like summertime.”

Piatkowski sat out 11 of 12 games, but played eight minutes Saturday against the Boston Celtics. He said he felt out of sync Saturday and during Sunday’s practice, but said Monday he was more comfortable.

“I feel funny on the floor right now,” he said. “But today I felt better. It takes time to get into a groove. I need to play some games and practice some. Usually, everything seems slow on the floor. But right now it’s all happening so fast. I need things to slow down again.”

TONIGHT

vs. Portland, 6, Fox Sports Net 2

Site--Staples Center.

Radio--KXTA (1150).

Records--Clippers 15-14, Trail Blazers 13-16.

Record vs. Trail Blazers--0-1.

Update--Portland has lost four consecutive and five of six. The Clippers have lost three in succession after having won three. This is the first of four games in five nights for the Clippers, who also face a similar stretch next week.

Tickets--(800) 462-2849.