He is well-received and respected within the organization, not only in the way he trains and dedicates himself to the game, but also in how he handles himself off the court.
But the latest developments in the team's attempts to reach a deal with him on a contract have left some confused, according to the sources.
When reached by phone Monday shortly after choosing to become a free agent, he referred to the Clippers as "we" and said that he would like the Clippers to land a player "solid at the point guard spot," before he would agree to re-sign with them.
At that time Falk said that Brand's decision to opt out had partly been made to allow the Clippers breathing space under the salary cap to sign an impact free agent.
That day, the possibility of the Clippers' losing both Brand and Maggette reflected a dreary day for an organization that has seen more than its share of them.
The next, highlighted by the agreement with Davis, who had appeared to fill the need for a solid point guard, reflected unbridled enthusiasm that had rarely been seen in the Clippers' past.
Wednesday?
Deja vu day.
If Brand departs the Clippers, they would again have enough salary cap space to re-sign Maggette, who was their leading scorer last season and was due to make $7 million next season. Maggette, however, is also an attractive free agent and is being wooed by the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers and San Antonio Spurs.
The Clippers could also begin targeting Atlanta Hawks restricted free-agent forward Josh Smith, who visited the 76ers on Wednesday.
Ramasar could not be reached Wednesday to be asked how Brand's situation potentially affects Davis' verbal agreement with the Clippers.
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jonathan.abrams@latimes.com
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