Clippers Search for the Right Fit, Right Direction

PALM DESERT — Suddenly, the Clippers are starting to look like a team.

Although Michael Olowokandi, their No. 1 draft choice, is not expected to join them until this weekend because of travel problems from Italy, Coach Chris Ford’s group of underdogs is coming together as the Clippers leave their training camp at College of the Desert today to return to Los Angeles.

“We’re searching for an identity,” Ford said Tuesday. “We haven’t established our identity yet. Hopefully, coming out of this camp and into the season, we’ll [have] established what we’re going to be.”

Lorenzen Wright, seeking a long-term contract extension before he plays out the final year of his existing deal, figures to play an important role this season.

He has played center all camp while Olowokandi was away playing with Kinder Bologna in the Italian League, but Wright is a natural power forward who has added nearly 10 pounds since last season. Wright also has developed a mid-range shot that could make him a key offensive weapon.

He will probably play center while Olowokandi adjusts to the NBA. Stojko Vrankovic and Keith Closs can block shots, but their rebounding and offensive skills are lacking.

Ford’s forwards would probably be considered a camp disappointment if not for the emergence of Lamond Murray, who will also play off-guard, and the overall hustle of rookie Brian Skinner.

Murray’s shot has been deadly and he has learned it’s OK to take defenders to the basket. Ford, who has coached a couple of decent small forwards early in their careers, Reggie Lewis at Boston and Glenn Robinson at Milwaukee, says Murray has the same type of ability.

Murray, who led the Clippers in scoring last season at 15.4 points a game and added 6.1 rebounds, apparently is comfortable.

“I’m feeling pretty good,” he said. “You always want to come back and build off a good season, ride the wave. That’s my mind frame. I want to be as consistent as possible throughout the season.”

Skinner has been impressive with his work ethic. He has lots to learn and lacks a consistent outside shot, but his determination may get him playing time.

Rodney Rogers arrived overweight but he has shed some pounds and rustiness. His high-flying days may be over but he’s still quicker than most inside.

Maurice Taylor also reported in need of conditioning. He showed grit when he continued to practice despite a quadriceps strain but is now listed as day to day.

Darrick Martin has been steady at point guard. He has shown that he can be a floor leader without looking for his shot first. Martin has been pushed by Pooh Richardson, who seems to be having fun again, and Charles Smith, who has played up to his reputation as a defensive stopper.

Eric Piatkowski has quietly settled into his role as a shooting guard. He will split time with James Robinson, who has been shooting extremely well and no longer is considered a defensive liability.

Free agents Tyrone Nesby, Juaquin Hawkins, Mark Blount, Chris Smith and Scott Brooks have given the Clippers’ top two units some bumps and bruises.

Richardson credits Ford for the Clippers’ confident attitude.

“[Ford] deals with the guys like they are men,” he said. “He talks to you. He just asks for the effort on the court. He doesn’t like mental mistakes [but] he lets you know without getting crazy about it. He says this is what we need to do to be successful and we have to put the effort in if you want it.”

Clipper Notes

The Clippers will return to Los Angeles after morning practice today, then will work out tonight at the Sports Arena. Ford said that the team will continue to practice twice a day until the start of the season.