Olowokandi Uncertain Again

Michael Olowokandi sat out three games because of a bruised right thigh but played Monday against the Cleveland Cavaliers. His status for Wednesday’s game against the Chicago Bulls is uncertain because his leg was swollen after he finished with 17 points and nine rebounds in 38 minutes.

Of greater or equal concern, according to Olowokandi, is the team’s inability to maintain its effectiveness down the stretch.

He knows his leg will improve if he continues to receive treatment from trainer Jasen Powell.

“We have to go out and be calm,” he said. “Everybody feels like they’re the one who has to make the game-winning plays. If it’s not there, we have to be patient. Down the stretch, we’re not sure. Is it me? Is it you? The player with the ball feels he needs to make the winning shot.”

The Clippers let a 10-point lead in the second quarter slip away and, later, held a five-point lead in the fourth quarter before losing, 104-100, to the Cavaliers.

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Andre Miller’s return to Cleveland was a dud.

“Obviously, he didn’t play well,” Coach Alvin Gentry said. “He was two for 11. It wasn’t a typical Andre game. It’s been a tough week for him. He lost his stepfather [10 days ago], jumped on a plane [after the funeral Saturday] and flew all night. He still probably hasn’t gotten his rest. So, it’s been kind of tough for him. I don’t ever fault his effort or what he’s trying to do.”

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The Cavaliers made interim Coach Keith Smart a winner for the first time since he replaced John Lucas as coach Jan. 20.

“It’s unfortunate what’s happened here, but I think Keith will do a good job,” Gentry said. “He’ll work at it and I think he’ll get the guys playing the right way. I hope he gets a chance to come back and do it again.”