Cassell to Denver?

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Clippers guard says L.A. is first choice, but will listen to Denver's pitch

By Marc J. Spears
Denver Post Staff Writer

Los Angeles Clippers guard Sam Cassell can see himself back in Los Angeles next season, but he would be open to reuniting with coach George Karl as a Nugget.

Cassell will be a free agent in the offseason and said Thursday he would consider listening to a Nuggets sales pitch because of his connection to Karl. Cassell played for Karl in Milwaukee from 1999-2002, and they have maintained a strong relationship. The 13-year veteran made $6.1 million in the final year of his contract this season and would like to play two or three more seasons.

"I would like to stay here, but ... I know there are going to be some other teams that are going to make me an offer," Cassell said. "Maybe Denver. I think George Karl has really respected me even more because of my leadership abilities to get guys to come out and perform the way they are supposed to perform. That makes it so easy for a coach.I'd listen. I owe him that much respect. The Clippers are my first choice. They've got to be fair with me."

The Nuggets already have two guards signed to long-term contracts, Andre Miller and Earl Boykins, but could use a veteran leader. Cassell, who won two NBA titles with Houston, said he would be open to coming off the bench behind Miller. The Nuggets will be over the salary cap and could use their mid-level exception to re-sign forward Reggie Evans. The Los Angeles Lakers also are rumored to have interest in Cassell.

"My job here is to motivate our guys," said Cassell, 37. "That's why

you see me talking to my guys throughout the whole game."

Cassell averaged 17.2 points, 6.3 assists and 3.7 rebounds and played a big role in the Clippers making their first playoff appearance since 1997.

"I'm not going to comment other than Sam's a great player. I'm impressed at his longevity. It's incredible," said Karl, who later added, "Sam's just posturing."

Clippers general manager Elgin Baylor hopes to re-sign Cassell, but also will have another free agent in Vladimir Radmanovic this summer and can sign center Chris Kaman to a long-term extension.

"We'd like to have Sam back," Baylor said. "But you know, Sam has to make that decision. It's up to Sam. We'll certainly make every effort to have him back. We'd certainly love to have him back."

Said Cassell: "With what I've helped this organization and this team to accomplish, I just want to be treated to my value. That's what it's all about, getting paid for what you do on the basketball court."