LAWLER'S LETTER FROM CLIPPERS TRAINING CAMP
October 2, 2001 - Day 1 - Palm Desert, Ca.
Corey Maggette quickly re-established himself as the team's hardest
worker and best conditioned athlete by burning the field in coach
Alvin Gentry's traditional opening day one-mile run under a blazing
desert sun on Monday morning.
"Corey is like a machine," said one camp observer. However, Maggette
was not the only player to report to training camp in tip-top shape. This team
has been working hard together ever since the end of last season.
There hardly was an off-season. This group is in better shape
coming into camp than some past Clipper teams have been coming
out of camp.
Opening day notes:
Maggette is not only in magnificent condition, he has grown a full inch and is now a legitimate 6-7.
Center Michael Olowokandi has trimmed 20+ pounds off his 7-0 frame. He appears to be much quicker. Michael has also recovered from the injury to fingers on his left hand.
Lamar Odom spent much of the summer developing his right hand. The southpaw is now a threat to score with either hand.
New assistant coach Mo McHone looks to be an accomplished teacher
and a perfect fit on this talented, young team.
Quentin Richardson is in the best condition of his life. Keep
an eye on "Q" this year.
It will be fun to watch Harold Jamison and Obina Ekezie battle
it out for what may be the lone opening on the Clipper roster. Each is a 6-9 power forward of considerable potential.
Elton Brand has gained familiarity with his new teammates during
informal workouts over the past month. The former Chicago Bull is big, he's strong, he rebounds and he blocks shots. Furthermore, he can really shoot the ball.
19 year old Darius Miles is much improved. He's downright scary.
Coach Gentry emphasized running drills during the first round
of the dreaded "two-a-days." He also familiarized his team with
the new rule changes. Much of the day's work
concentrated on defensive principles.
The Clippers will work twice daily at Wright Gym on the campus
of College of the Desert in Palm Desert, Ca. through October
8.
