Kapono Returns to L.A. as a Starter

The Clippers, who lost to Minnesota in overtime Saturday night after winning five in a row, will try to get another streak going tonight against the expansion Charlotte Bobcats at Staples Center.

The Bobcats are coming off a 107-101 victory over the New York Knicks on Saturday night.

Starting at forward for the Bobcats is former UCLA and Artesia High star Jason Kapono. He scored 10 points against the Knicks and is averaging 8.7 points. He had a career-high 25 points against Detroit on Nov. 21.

Kapono, who averaged 3.5 points as a rookie with the Cleveland Cavaliers last season, was acquired by the Bobcats in the expansion draft.

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The Clippers, after practicing Sunday, said guard Kerry Kittles remained questionable for tonight’s game. Kittles has been sidelined by a bruised right knee.... Center Zeljko Rebraca will not play tonight after suffering back spasms.... The Bobcats’ payroll is reportedly about $22 million, which is about $5 million less than Shaquille O’Neal’s salary.

TONIGHT

vs. Charlotte, 7:30, FSNW2

Site -- Staples Center.

Records -- Clippers 10-7, Bobcats 4-10.

Record vs. Bobcats -- 0-0.

Update -- Corey Maggette scored 34 points against the Timberwolves, which tied his career high. Marko Jaric had a double-double with 10 points and 10 assists. Reserve center Mikki Moore, in his sixth season in the NBA, played 27 minutes against the Timberwolves and scored 11 points. Averaging 7.3 points a game, he has become a factor off the bench. His best previous season was 2000-01, when he averaged 4.4 points for Detroit.

-- Larry Stewart