Clippers seek more from DeAndre Jordan

The lack of production the Clippers got from center DeAndre Jordan (four points, 10 rebounds) in the two games in Memphis might not have set off alarm bells, but it was a concern heading into Game 5.
“I don’t know if crossroads is the right (word) but there’s definitely a level you have to play at right now that is much different,” Clippers coach Vinny Del Negro said. “He has a much different responsibility now. He understands it. I haven’t seen the consistency that I like, he hasn’t seen the consistency he would like.”
Jordan played only 17 minutes in Game 4 and took only three shots. Meanwhile, Grizzlies front-liners Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol combined for 48 points and 22 rebounds.
“I didn’t see him controlling the game the way I thought he needed to and at that stage you have to go with someone you feel can,” Del Negro said. “Maybe Ryan Hollins could have played a few more minutes after looking at the tape.
“But those are decisions that are made during the heat of the battle and you go with your rotation as best you can. At this stage of the game you want to stay with your rotation, but if they’re not being productive, you have to look at other guys you have confidence in, that have produced throughout the series.”
Jordan took four shots in the first quarter Tuesday, more than he took in either game in Memphis. Del Negro listed what he expected from Jordan.
“Defensively, offensively, being a threat out there on the glass, using his length, athleticism,” Del Negro said. “But it’s up to him to get out there and earn his minutes and work through anything that’s thrown at him during the game.”