Baylor Is GMs’ Choice for Executive of the Year

Elgin Baylor was voted NBA executive of the year in a survey of general managers, the league announced Wednesday.

Baylor, in his 20th season as the Clipper general manager, received 58 points in NBA.com’s fourth survey of general managers, who are asked to list their top choices for postseason awards.

Bryan Colangelo, who left the Phoenix Suns for the Toronto Raptors in February, was second with 34 points, and Donnie Nelson of the Dallas Mavericks had 20.

“It’s a great honor, and I’d like to thank my peers,” said Baylor, in Denver for tonight’s Game 3 against the Nuggets.

At 47-35, the Clippers had their highest victory total in California and second-best record in franchise history, and set a road mark with 20 victories.

Baylor acquired point guard Sam Cassell and a lottery-protected first-round pick in August from the Minnesota Timberwolves for guards Marko Jaric and Lionel Chalmers.

Before the trade deadline, Baylor sent inconsistent forward-center Chris Wilcox to the Seattle SuperSonics for three-point specialist Vladimir Radmanovic.

Although Coach Mike Dunleavy also has a major role in decisions, Baylor is the one held accountable.

“He’s done a great job,” Dunleavy said. “He has been terrific to work with, and I couldn’t be more pleased for him.”

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Center Chris Kaman sat out practice because of a sprained right ankle he suffered in Monday’s Game 2 victory, a team spokesman said.

“I’m fine,” Kaman said. “I’m going to play; it’s a playoff game.”