Clippers try to buzz Wizards in LA

The Clippers are eighth overall in the Western Conference playoff race, just a half game ahead of the idle Golden State Warriors. On Friday the Clippers posted a 104-72 victory over the Utah Jazz, as Elton Brand recorded 20 points and 11 rebounds to lead the way.

Corey Maggette ended with 19 points, five boards and six assists for Los Angeles, which has won four of its last five games. Cuttino Mobley added 15 points, while Chris Kaman donated 10 and 14 rebounds in the triumph.

Los Angeles will also host Houston on the homestand and is 22-12 at the Staples Center this season. On the injury front for LA, guard Sam Cassell (back) is questionable against Washington.

Meanwhile, the Southeast Division-leading Wizards have lost two of their last three games and will continue a five-game road trip this evening in LA.

Washington is 1-2 on the swing and suffered a 135-128 setback to the Warriors on Friday at ORACLE Arena. Gilbert Arenas scored 29 points and dished out 13 assists for the Wizards, who are a half game ahead of the Miami Heat for first place in the division.

The Wizards will also visit Utah and are 12-21 on the road this season. They are also third in the Eastern Conference standings. In injury news for the Wizards, forward Caron Butler (knee) is doubtful for Saturday’s game.

Saturday’s showdown between Washington and Los Angeles is the second and final meeting of the regular season. The Wizards won the first matchup, 116-105, on January 5 at the Verizon Center.

Washington has won six of nine and eight of the last 12 encounters with the Clippers, who have won the last two games at the Staples Center in this series.