Dunleavy Calls Rebounding Prowess Deceiving

Statistics seemingly indicate the Clippers are among the NBA’s best at rebounding, though Coach Mike Dunleavy would disagree.

The Clippers average 44.1 rebounds, fifth overall, and grab 3.9 more than their opponents -- tied for the fourth-highest differential.

So, what’s the problem?

Well, boxing out tops the list.

The Clippers’ inability to box out consistently, especially late in games, has played a key role in three of their five losses.

The failure to box out down the stretch contributed to a 112-105 overtime loss Nov. 30 to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Indiana Pacers had 13 offensive rebounds and 18 second-chance points Nov. 27 in a 97-92 victory over the Clippers at Staples Center.

The Toronto Raptors had 15 offensive rebounds Nov. 23 in a 103-100 loss to the Clippers. That’s unacceptable, Dunleavy said.

“We’ve talked about it a good deal and we’ve shown a lot of film on it,” Dunleavy said. “It’s something that’s keeping us from potentially being a much better team.

“The two areas we’ve got to get better at is carelessness on turnovers and the boards. We can’t give up so many offensive boards.”

How does Dunleavy explain it?

“It’s pretty amazing,” he said. “I think it’s funny accounting. I’ve got to check the books on that.”

The Clippers said they’ve gotten the message.

“Mike has been preaching it the whole time since training camp: We’ve got to rebound collectively as a group,” point guard Sam Cassell said. “That’s what happens when we have problems, we didn’t rebound the ball.”

TONIGHT

vs. Miami, 7:30

Site -- Staples Center.

TV -- FSN West 2.

Radio -- 1150.

Records -- Clippers 11-5, Heat 10-7.

2004-05 record vs. Heat -- 1-1.

Update -- Miami center Shaquille O’Neal has been sidelined 15 games because of a sprained right ankle. Heat guard Dwyane Wade is sixth in the NBA in scoring, averaging 25.6 points, and center Alonzo Mourning leads the league in blocked shots.