Williams may make debut against Hornets

Reserve forward Aaron Williams practiced Friday and might make his Clippers debut Sunday against the New Orleans Hornets at Staples Center.

Williams, 6-foot-9, sat out most of the exhibition season and the team’s first five games because of a sore lower back. After participating in drills Friday, Williams said he hoped to contribute against the Hornets, with whom he played last season.

“I just want to be out there with the guys instead of sitting on the side and feeling like I’m letting the team down,” Williams said. “I’m new on the team and I’m trying to help the team any way I can. You can’t help the team when you’re sitting on the side.”

Coach Mike Dunleavy has exercised caution with the 12-year veteran, who signed a two-year, $3.64-million contract in the off-season.

With backup center Zeljko Rebraca out indefinitely, the Clippers are eager for Williams to return.

Williams has averaged 6.1 points and 4.1 rebounds in his career. Moreover, he is considered solid in individual and team defense.

“I’m going to see how I feel [today], but I think I should be able to go Sunday,” he said. “I want to get back and help the guys.”

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The Clippers’ depth has been a key factor in a 4-1 start, General Manager Elgin Baylor said.

“We have a lot of depth on this team,” he said. “Everybody is getting involved offensively, everybody is contributing, which is good. That’s what we expected.”

Although All-Star power forward Elton Brand is off to a slow start, Baylor said he’s not worried about the team’s franchise player.

“I’m not concerned about Elton scoring and what his average is. He’s going to be fine,” Baylor said. “It’s just good to see the other guys scoring and contributing.”

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jason.reid@latimes.com