Cassell shows that he’s still a playmaker

By NBA standards, Sam Cassell, 37, is considered old for a point guard, and Cassell has been sidelined often because of injuries in this his 14th season.

But it appears Cassell has a flair for the dramatic, as evidenced by his clutch performance in Thursday’s 118-110 victory over the Lakers at Staples Center.

Returning to the lineup for the first time since March 31, Cassell scored eight of his 12 points and had three assists in the fourth quarter to help the Clippers rally against their co-dwelling rivals, who led by 17 points in the third quarter.

Cassell had eight points and two assists in Friday’s 107-89 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers at Staples. He was assessed two technical fouls for arguing and ejected in the fourth quarter.

With a Western Conference playoff berth at stake, Cassell’s effort against the Lakers provided a timely spark.

“That’s Sam,” said Tim Thomas, also Cassell’s teammate with the Milwaukee Bucks. “For six years of my career, with us being teammates, that’s just been him. He has the heart of a tiger and he’s such a competitor. Nothing fazes him. To sit out for so long, and to come back in a big game like this ... it’s what he does.

“He came in the game early and was a little sluggish. Then in the second half, to make big plays like he was making, what can you say? He’s been doing it from day one in his career, coming in and making big plays.”

Cassell played only 17 minutes in the previous 11 games because of back spasms.

The Clippers had lost three in a row, and Cassell said he was determined to make a difference with time running out.

“I’m not saying that I’m the savior or the hero, but I know what I can do for this ballclub,” Cassell said.

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As of Friday night, fewer than 250 tickets priced at $35 were available for Sunday’s game against Sacramento, a Clippers spokesman said.

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Cassell and Cuttino Mobley will play host to a celebrity basketball game today. Actor Mark Wahlberg is among those scheduled to participate, and several Clippers are expected to attend the event. Tickets are available through Barry’s Tickets: (888) 749-8499.

jason.reid@latimes.com