Cassell enjoying a trusted position

Mike Dunleavy is considered a hands-on coach, but he has given veteran point guard Sam Cassell freedom to operate within the structure of the offense.

It’s not uncommon for Cassell, in his 14th season, to deviate from a play called from the bench if he determines other options might be more effective based on an opponent’s defensive sets.

And Cassell often takes shots that prompt Dunleavy to grimace -- until the ball goes through the net. Cassell has the most leeway to freelance on the team.

“Mike is going to let me do certain things for this basketball team that he’s not going to let other guys do,” Cassell said. “It’s like I tell Elton [Brand], we have to set that example because Mike isn’t going to get on us like he is some of the other guys.

“But that means we better come through for this basketball team. When we get our opportunities, we better do something with it. We understand that responsibility Mike gives us to help get this basketball team where it needs to be.”

The offense often appeared stagnant recently while Cassell was sidelined because of a heel injury. The Clippers struggled to score in long stretches when Brand went to the bench to rest.

Things have been better for the Clippers on offense in the last two games with Cassell back in the lineup. Cassell takes charge when he’s on the floor, and he seems to have a knack for sensing when the Clippers need him to score.

Cassell has continued to successfully freelance at times and shoot quickly before opponents are set on defense.

“Sam is a big part of our team, a very big part, and Coach Dunleavy trusts Sam to make good decisions out there,” Brand said. “He’s been doing it for a long time.”

*

TONIGHT

vs. Cleveland, 7:30 p.m., Ch. 5

Site -- Staples Center.

Radio -- 710.

Records -- Clippers 17-19, Cavaliers 22-13.

Record vs. Cavaliers (2005-06) -- 1-1.

Update -- The team returns to Staples Center for the first time since its 90-80 victory over the New York Knicks on Dec. 31. The Clippers went 3-3 on a 10-day trip. Cleveland’s LeBron James is averaging 26.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and 6.1 assists.

jason.reid@latimes.com