Not sure what's going on with media day and the opening of training camp and the new practice facility, although it's not exactly stealing headlines from either the Lakers or the financial collapse of the US.

I do note that Mr. Stein has the Clippers at #19 in the preseason power rankings, one spot ahead of the Warriors and one spot below the Nuggets.  The Sixers, "undisputed winners of the offseason," are at #8.

And here's Stein's Clipper comment:

"Not nearly as down on the Clips' chances as the departing Maggette, who claims homecoming king Baron Davis is "in for a rude awakening." Not ready to say this new team of newsmakers can make the playoffs, either."

Thanks for the helpful quote, Maggs.  Another strike against you and your Warrior future, but who's keeping track.

Gee, that's big of you Stein, that you're not so down on the Clips' chances.

But this is how it's going to be for awhile.  Don't look for any bright spots from the Clips until the preseason starts--and if anything, it will be probably be frustrating as guys get banged up, following on the Jason Williams thing.

I have to say that I'm a little surprised that Baron Davis, Marcus Camby and some of the others don't seem to be getting much in the way of respect.  I guess I shouldn't be surprised that Maggette and Brand suddenly seem to be all-stars and game changers for other teams, when they were unable to get the Clippers over the top, and they aren't going to especially stacked teams.

But maybe that's just me.  Patience to get started and see how things gel is wearing a bit thin.