Brand Learns All-Star Fate Today

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — It would surprise the Clippers if power forward Elton Brand is not among the Western Conference All-Star reserves announced today.

“Elton Brand is a lock,” Coach Mike Dunleavy said.

The Clippers, however, do not expect point guard Sam Cassell to be selected, though they said he’s deserving.

In addition to averaging 18 points and a team-high 6.5 assists, the co-captain has brought a swagger to the Clippers, boosting his teammates’ confidence with each clutch shot.

The Clippers, who have the conference’s fourth-best record, are 5-1 in games decided by three points or fewer. They were 4-13 under those circumstances in the 2004-05 season.

“E.B. is having an incredible year, and we all really depend on him, but Sam has been a huge part in what we’re doing,” center Chris Kaman said. “Just the way he goes out there and takes over when we need him to, it’s just incredible.”

Said Brand: “We’re winning and he’s always there when we need him. What more could you ask for?”

Of course, being a key member of an upper-echelon team doesn’t guarantee an All-Star invitation. There are only so many roster spots, so coaches who select the reserves often face difficult decisions.

Cassell, in his 13th season, was chosen as a reserve for the 2003-04 All-Star game. He’s not expecting a return trip this season.

“It’s the politics, first and foremost,” Cassell said. “Personally, I think I should have been a three- or four-time All-Star, if they say stats make you All-Star. I’m doing my job for this ballclub.”

Cassell said the support of his peers means more than another All-Star appearance.

“Fans might not give me a million votes,” he said, “but I get my respect from the players.” *

It appeared forward-center Chris Wilcox dropped in the rotation on the trip.

Cassell admonished Wilcox for his poor performance rebounding in Tuesday’s victory over the New York Knicks, and Wilcox played only eight minutes in Wednesday’s 97-87 loss to the Detroit Pistons. Late in the game, Dunleavy turned to forward Walter McCarty and forward-center Boniface Ndong instead of Wilcox.

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Swingman Cuttino Mobley scored 27 points despite playing with a dislocated index finger on his left (shooting) hand.