PLAYER NOTES
--F Boris Diaw, traditionally a strong shooter, has made just four of 23 shots over his last three games, all road games in the Western Conference. With Stephen Jackson out, the Bobcats desperately need Diaw to pick up his game.
--F Dominic McGuire went from unemployed three days earlier to a starter Saturday. McGuire replaced injured Stephen Jackson at small forward, due primarily to his familiarity with the system. McGuire was waived by the Bobcats at the trade deadline to open a roster spot necessary for one of the deals. He had four points and six rebounds in 26 minutes at Portland.
--C Joel Przybilla got a standing ovation from the Portland crowd when he entered the game against the Blazers. Przybilla might be near the end of his career, but he's extremely popular in Portland. He started the second half for the Bobcats because the coaches weren't happy with Kwame Brown's defense. Przybilla had five points and two rebounds in 17 minutes Saturday.
--G D.J. Augustin has to shoot a lot in Stephen Jackson's absence, but his 1-of-6 performance from 3-point range Saturday added to the Bobcats' struggles. He wound up with 14 points and three assists but committed six turnovers.
MEDICAL WATCH
--F/G Stephen Jackson (severe hamstring strain) hasn't played since March 4. He is out indefinitely.
--F Tyrus Thomas (surgery to repair meniscus tear) hasn't played since Jan 18. He is close to returning to action.
--C DeSagana Diop (ruptured Achilles tendon) is out until next winter.
ROTATION
Starters:
--Point guard D.J. Augustin
--Shooting guard Gerald Henderson
--Small forward Stephen Jackson
--Power forward Boris Diaw
--Center Kwame Brown
Bench:
--Guard Shaun Livingston
--Power forward Eduardo Najera
--Center Joel Przybilla
--Guard Matt Carroll
