Maggette Is Said to Be Making Progress

Swingman Corey Maggette had a cast removed from his left foot Tuesday in Los Angeles and underwent an X-ray exam that showed improvement in a separated ligament.

“The X-ray revealed significant healing, and we will proceed with our intended therapy and rehabilitation program,” said team physician Tony Daly, who removed the cast and examined Maggette.

“We are optimistic about Corey’s status. He will be reevaluated in two to three weeks, at which time we intend to determine a further course of action.”

Maggette, sidelined since Dec. 6, is scheduled to undergo water therapy and a rehabilitation program.

The Clippers’ second-leading scorer with an average of 21.7 points in 13 games, Maggette recently said he hoped to return after the All-Star break.

If Maggette’s foot responds poorly to rehabilitation, he might require season-ending surgery to implant a screw.

The Clippers, in Orlando on a six-game, 11-day trip, were pleased to learn that Maggette apparently had made progress.

“It’s great to hear,” Coach Mike Dunleavy said. “We just want to make sure everything is done the right way to ensure his long-term health.”

Power forward Elton Brand said the Clippers would be strengthened if Maggette could return this season.

“No doubt about it, we definitely want to get Corey back as soon as possible,” Brand said. “There isn’t a team in the league that Corey couldn’t help, and we know what he can do for us.”

Point guard Sam Cassell said Maggette’s return would elevate the Clippers among NBA’s top teams.

“You see what we’ve been able to do without Corey, because this team is always going to play hard no matter what, and that’s what we’ve done,” Cassell said. “Now, you go add a Corey Maggette back to what we’ve already got, and it’s going to be real big for us.

“Corey takes pressure off of everybody because he puts so much pressure on the defense. You want to have Corey Maggette out there doing what he does, running the floor hard, getting to the line, and we need him.”

TONIGHT

at Orlando, 4 PST, FSN West 2

Site -- TD Waterhouse Centre.

Radio -- 1150.

Records -- Clippers 25-17, Magic 18-24.

Record vs. Magic -- 1-0.

Update -- The Clippers defeated the Magic, 90-73, on Jan 10 at Staples Center. The Magic, third in the Southeast Division, has dropped its last two games after winning five in a row.