Gentry Sticks With What Works

PHOENIX â€”  Coach Alvin Gentry did not mess with the Clippers’ starting lineup. He didn’t tinker with his rotation. There was no reason to make any significant changes during a victory Tuesday over the Phoenix Suns.

Gentry continued to give backup center Melvin Ely more playing time, using him as Sean Rooks’ backup. Rooks has replaced Michael Olowokandi, who underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee last week and will be sidelined at least a month.

“He’s a rookie and he’s going to make mistakes,� Gentry said of Ely, who scored nine points on two-for-two shooting and five-for-six free-throw shooting and took five rebounds in 27 minutes. “He’s brought a certain level of aggressiveness. I don’t even look at his numbers. I think he’s been very good.�

*

TONIGHT

vs. Washington, 7:30

Site -- Staples Center.

Radio -- XTRA (1150), KTNQ (1020, Spanish).

Records -- Clippers 18-32, Wizards 24-26.

Record vs. Wizards (2001-02) -- 1-1.

Update -- Michael Jordan, carrying the Wizards on his back while averaging 18.8 points this season, makes a house call at Staples Center tonight. Jordan returns to face the Lakers on March 28 for what could be his final game at Los Angeles. So hold the hype and applause for Jordan’s likely farewell next month.

Tickets--Sold out.

-- Elliott Teaford