Odom Looks to the Future but Is Stung by the Clippers

Former Clipper Lamar Odom says he’s ready to turn his career around. The Miami Heat believes him.

The fourth overall pick in the 1999 NBA draft officially joined the Heat on Wednesday, signing a six-year, $65-million contract after the Clippers declined to match it.

“Being here is a great opportunity for me to prove all the doubters wrong,” Odom said at a news conference.

Odom, 23, averaged 15.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 4.6 assists in his first four seasons, but his off-court behavior was considered a problem.

The 6-foot-10 swingman was suspended for eight games in November after violating the league’s anti-drug policy. He also served a five-game drug suspension in March 2001.

Heat Coach Pat Riley said he believes in Odom, adding, “He’s mature enough now to take care of business.”

Clipper General Manager Elgin Baylor disagreed, saying this week that letting Odom go was based “on issues of character and other risks involved.”

The words stung, Odom said.

“It took a little wind out of me.... I think they had to give a reason why they didn’t do it,” Odom said.

Odom, however, said he has learned from his mistakes.

“A lot of it was immaturity on my part,” Odom said. “We’re all products of our environment. The key is not to fall. I just wasn’t focused enough. I was immature. A lot was happening fast.”