It’s Sweet 17 for Brand

DENVER — Power forward Elton Brand said he was elated after missing seven of nine shots en route to nine points during the Clippers’ victory Friday against the Denver Nuggets. A sore right elbow slowed his offensive production, but he did take 13 rebounds.

But what thrilled Brand was that the victory was the Clippers’ 17th this season. In two seasons with the Chicago Bulls, Brand never won more than 17. The Bulls dealt him to the Clippers last summer.

“Seventeen wins ties my career high and it’s only January,” he said. “I’m elated.”

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The Clippers will be trailed for the next two months by crews from ESPN, which will air seven one-hour segments on the team as part of its “Sidelines” program later this season. The cable network featured a behind-the-scenes look at the Texas A&M; football team during the fall.

TONIGHT

vs. Milwaukee, 7:30

Fox Sports Net 2

Site--Staples Center.

Radio--KXTA (1150).

Records--Clippers 17-15, Bucks 18-11.

Record vs. Bucks (2000-01)--1-1.

Update--Milwaukee has lost two in a row after winning four consecutive. Glenn Robinson averages 21.8 points, Ray Allen 21.4 and Sam Cassell 19.9 for the Bucks. They did not play in a loss Wednesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Robinson has a left thigh bruise, Allen tendinitis in his left knee and Cassell a sprained neck. Allen hopes to play tonight.

Tickets--(800) 462-2849.