Piatkowski Probably Out for the Season

Guard Eric Piatkowski, whose season took a dramatic upturn in February when fellow guard Brent Barry was traded, might already have seen the end of his season.

Coach Bill Fitch isn’t expecting Piatkowski, who is on the injured list because of a strained abdominal muscle, to return for the final seven games.

“I don’t think he’ll be back,” Fitch said. “Certainly not this week. And by the time he can come back, it may not be worth it.

“[James] Robinson will get the main minutes and [Charles] Smith and [James] Collins can get some experience.”

If his season is done, Piatkowski winds ups with an 11.3 scoring average, nearly double his previous career mark of 5.9, amassed over three seasons.

*

Piatkowski isn’t the only Clipper needing treatment. Forwards Rodney Rogers, and Maurice Taylor, center Isaac Austin and Robinson are all moving at less than full speed.

Taylor, who has a hyperextended left knee, is the only one definitely out of tonight’s game. Rogers, with a sprained left knee, might dress and get in a few minutes. Austin, with a bruised right calf, and Robinson, with a bruised knee, are expected to play.

TONIGHT

vs. Vancouver

* 7:30

* Fox Sports

West 2

Site--Sports Arena.

Radio--KEZY-FM (95.9), LITE-FM (92.7).

Records--Clippers 16-59, Grizzlies 16-58.

Record vs. Grizzlies--1-2.

Update--These are two teams with nothing more to aim for than the end of their respective losing streaks. The Grizzlies have lost six in a row, the Clippers four.