Ely Is Getting Expansive in His Thinking

Melvin Ely was so confident that he would be shipped out before the trading deadline in February, as he had requested, that the Clipper reserve packed up his apartment and was ready to move.

Two months later, he’s still a Clipper -- and still packed.

“I just want to play, so if that means going to another team, that’s what I want to do,” he said Saturday. “Obviously, I’m not a fit here. God willing, I could be somewhere else next season, start everything brand new ... and just try to get onto the court by any means necessary.”

The 6-foot-10 forward-center from Fresno State would love to be taken by the Charlotte Bobcats in the expansion draft in June. The Clippers, who can protect as many as eight players, are expected to leave Ely unprotected.

“I’d be on the first thing smokin’,” he said of the possibility of joining the expansion team that begins play next season.

But he’d go anywhere.

The 12th pick in the 2002 draft, he has played in 41 games this season, making two starts. He averages 3.8 points and 2.5 rebounds in 12.3 minutes.

“I’m all for the team thing,” he said, “but I still want to get on the court. That’s the goal of every basketball player. If somebody tells you they’re OK with being a practice player ... they don’t even need to be in the league. The main reason you play ball is to be on the court when the lights come on. I know I can’t play all the minutes, but I want to be somewhere where I can play 15 to 20.

“I’d just rather go to a place where I can get a chance.”

TONIGHT

vs. San Antonio, 6:30, Channel 5

Site -- Staples Center.

Radio -- XTRA (690/1150).

Records -- Clippers 27-52, Spurs 54-25.

Record vs. Spurs -- 1-2.

Update -- Quentin Richardson is expected to be activated from the injured list, and Bobby Simmons and Chris Wilcox also are expected to return for the Clippers, but Corey Maggette is doubtful because of a hamstring injury. The Spurs, winners of eight in a row and 10 of 11, still have a shot at the best record in the West and are trying to chase down the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Midwest Division race.

Tickets -- (800) 462-2849.