Kaman, Kittles Doubtful

After first hinting Friday that Chris Kaman and Kerry Kittles might be ready to come off the injured list and make their season debuts today, Clipper Coach Mike Dunleavy then said it was “probably doubtful” that either would play against the Houston Rockets at Staples Center.

Kaman, sidelined because of a sprained left ankle, reiterated that he has targeted a Thursday return against the New Jersey Nets.

Kittles, sidelined because of a sore right knee, remained noncommittal but said he felt “pretty good” after Friday’s practice and was “itching” to play.

Kittles, traded from the Nets in July, said of his new teammates: “There’s a lot to be learned with these young guys, but I love it because they compete. Sometimes you have to get on young guys to play hard, but these guys you don’t. From what I’ve seen, these guys compete. They don’t back down.”

TODAY

vs. Houston, 12:30 p.m., Ch. 5

Site -- Staples Center.

Radio -- KMPC (1540).

Records -- Clippers 5-4, Rockets 4-6.

Record vs. Rockets (2003-04) -- 0-4.

Update -- Corey Maggette missed Friday’s practice because of flu-like symptoms but is expected to play. The Rockets, opening a four-game trip, have lost four of five. Tracy McGrady has averaged 20.4 points, Yao Ming 19.2 points and 8.2 rebounds.

Tickets -- (800) 462-2849.

-- Jerry Crowe