Rebraca May Be Out Three Weeks

DENVER —  Backup center Zeljko Rebraca, who sat out 24 games because of an irregular heartbeat, might be sidelined three more weeks after again experiencing chest pains, a Clipper spokesman said Thursday.

Physicians recommended that Rebraca, who did not accompany the team on a trip to play the Denver Nuggets tonight, sit out at least two weeks after tests Thursday at Centinela Hospital Medical Center in Inglewood did not reveal what caused his irregular heartbeat before Wednesday’s 90-77 victory over the New Jersey Nets.

The four-year veteran, however, was cleared to resume full-contact practice, and Rebraca is expected to accompany the Clippers on a six-game, 11-day Eastern trip that begins Sunday.

“The doctors said he would have some episodes, periodically, while he gets adjusted to being back with us,” Coach Mike Dunleavy said. “Hopefully, he’ll be OK.”

During pregame warmups Wednesday, Rebraca, 33, informed team medical personnel of the problem, the Clipper spokesman said.

The 7-foot, 265-pound player was diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat Nov. 23 after a game against the Toronto Raptors.

After having a noninvasive procedure to help prevent a recurrence of the problem, Rebraca returned Jan. 22 against the Golden State Warriors at Staples Center. In 13 games, Rebraca is averaging 4.1 points and 2.1 rebounds.

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Rookie forward James Singleton and rookie guard Daniel Ewing have made major contributions during the Clippers’ recent 6-2 stretch, teammates said.

“Oh, man, my young guys, Daniel Ewing and James Singleton, have been stepping up,” point guard Sam Cassell said. “They’re giving us what we need.”

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TONIGHT

at Denver, 6:30 PST, FSN West 2

Site -- Pepsi Center.

Radio -- 1150.

Records -- Clippers 23-16, Nuggets 25-19.

Record vs. Nuggets -- 1-0.

Update -- Denver leads the Northwest Division and has won seven in a row. Forward Carmelo Anthony averages a team-high 25.8 points. Former Clipper Andre Miller averages 14.3 points and 8.4 assists.