Returns Are Welcomed

Point guard Sam Cassell’s vision of a fast-paced Clipper offense hasn’t materialized because of injuries to key players, though Cassell said that could change soon.

Forward Corey Maggette, who sat out the first four games because of a hamstring injury, returned to the lineup in Wednesday’s 102-97 victory against the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center. Reserve forward Walter McCarty, a three-point specialist, had stitches removed from his right thumb Wednesday and increased his shooting in practice.

Backup point guard Shaun Livingston did not accompany the team on the four-game trip because of his back problems.

“Oh, man, when I get all my guys back ... it’s going to be something,” Cassell said. “We haven’t had Corey, and other guys stepped up and did a great job, but Corey brings something big to this team.”

Forward Elton Brand agreed: “It’s great for us because Corey is another weapon. He gives us another way to attack. Not taking anything away from the guys who have stepped up while Corey was out, but he’s fearless.”

Cassell acknowledged he had not initiated as many fastbreaks as he would have in the first four games had Maggette played, and Maggette might need time to regain top form.

“We’ve definitely got the guys to do some real special, special things,” Cassell said.

*

TONIGHT

Atlanta, 4 PST

Site -- Philips Arena.

Radio -- 1150.

Records -- Clippers 4-1, Hawks 0-4.

Record vs. Hawks -- 1-0.

Update -- The Clippers defeated the Hawks, 92-77, in their Staples Center opener. The Hawks lost Tuesday to the Lakers, 103-97, in their first game at Philips Arena.