Livingston Improving as Heir Apparent

Point guard Shaun Livingston has impressed while playing behind 13-year veteran Sam Cassell.

Livingston, 20, has continued to develop as a leader and strong defender, the Clippers said, and the team has benefited.

“Shaun has really been mentored by Sam,” swingman Corey Maggette said. “Just by watching Sam, Shaun has gotten better, and you can see it.

“Sam is not going to be in the league forever, and he’s been preparing Shaun and helping him out. Shaun has also been preparing himself to take that position.”

Livingston sat out the first 21 games because of a stress reaction in his lower back and struggled when he returned. Coach Mike Dunleavy challenged Livingston to do more, and his production increased.

Playing for the injured Cassell, Livingston had 12 points, a personal-best 13 assists and seven rebounds in Wednesday’s 119-105 victory over the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center.

“His youth and speed is the biggest thing,” Maggette said. “He’s 6-7, he handles the ball like one of the best, and he’s going to get better on his shooting. He just has a world of talent.”

In Tuesday’s 111-109 victory over the Denver Nuggets, Livingston provided a spark on offense and played a key role in the second half as the Clippers overcame a 22-point first-half deficit -- their largest of the season.

“Shaun came in and did a great job for this basketball team,” Cassell said. “Mike put him in for me and he came in with that energy. He’s going to be a great player in this league, no doubt about it.”

*

Cassell, who sat out Wednesday’s game against Phoenix because of a hyperextended right knee, is expected to play tonight.

*

TONIGHT

vs. Sacramento, 7:30, FSN Prime Ticket

Site -- Staples Center.

Radio -- 1150.

Records -- Clippers 44-30, Kings 39-37.

Record vs. Kings -- 0-3.

Update -- The Clippers could clinch their first postseason berth in nine seasons tonight. The Kings are 1-1 on a three-game trip, including Wednesday’s 97-87 victory at San Antonio. The Clippers have lost 12 in a row to Sacramento.