Brand Prepared for Expectations

Along with the big paycheck come high expectations.

“A lot more pressure on my shoulders,” said Clipper forward Elton Brand, recipient over the summer of a new six-year, $82-million contract. “Before, I was still in the rookie salary cap.

“But now you get a maximum-type deal, you have to play as a maximum-type player or you’ve underachieved. So definitely a lot of pressure, but I can handle it.”

For a few days in July, Brand thought he’d be in South Florida this month after signing an offer sheet with the Miami Heat. But the Clippers matched the offer, retaining their leading scorer and rebounder from the last two seasons.

“Mentally, it’s tough,” Brand said of the feeling of being pulled in different directions. “You don’t know where you’re going to be ... but once you find out, it’s time to get to work. It’s no hard feelings. Because of the rules, they can match and they did, so let’s go. Let’s turn this thing around and win some games.”

As part of the deal, Brand received an advance of $7 million.

So what’s it like to open your mail and find a $7-million check?

“Direct deposit,” corrected Brand, laughing. “You don’t want a check like that laying around. I might leave it in my car or something.”

The pragmatic Brand said he hadn’t even celebrated the windfall.

“I’ve been saving,” he said. “I just talked to my guy who does my bonds and said, ‘What are we going to do now?’ ”

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While privately reconfirming their interest, the Clippers remained mum publicly on their anticipated pursuit of free agent Glen Rice, who is expected to clear waivers today. A source close to the situation has characterized as “high” the club’s level of interest in the 6-foot-8 swingman.

Rice, who impressed the Clippers in a workout Sunday night, also was expected to work out for the New Jersey Nets before making a decision.

Rice’s agent, Jeff Wechsler, did not return messages left with his voice mail.

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Whereas the days leading up to it were all about conditioning, the exhibition season is about execution and performance, Coach Mike Dunleavy said.

“It’s seeing [if] guys first know what they’re supposed to be doing, in the right place at the right time doing the right things, and then after that it’s about ... the end result,” Dunleavy said before Tuesday night’s 101-82 loss to the Kings in the Clippers’ exhibition opener at Sacramento.

“Obviously, if a guy can put the ball in the basket, however it gets done, it’s a positive. ... But I would be more pleased with great execution and great shots, wide-open shots that are missed, than poor execution. The more good looks you’re going to get, the better off you’re going to be long-term.”

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In their first game under Dunleavy, the Clippers lost with Quentin Richardson scoring 20 points, including four three-point baskets. Elton Brand had 15 points and 10 rebounds.

The Kings led for all but the first four minutes, and they put the game away with a 12-1 run to start the fourth quarter.

Peja Stojakovic and Mike Bibby had 19 points apiece for Sacramento.

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Associated Press contributed to this report