Clippers guard Shaun Livingston said Thursday that the day is coming very soon when he will be cleared to have basketball-related activity.
“It could be within 2-3 weeks, it could be less than that,” Livingston said. “But it’s definitely right around the corner. It’s definitely on deck. Everything’s cool and we’re sticking with the game plan.”
It seems like eons since the last time Livingston has been on the court. His recovery and rehabilitation from a devastating left injury now is in its 16th month.
“I’ve been putting all of my strength work and all of my exercises and putting that into basketball-related form. So, it’s looking real good.”
Livingston said his initial contact work would consist of playing one-on-one, two-on-two, three-on-three and finally five-on-five.
“It will be some one-on-one, full court, where I’m bringing the ball up the court under pressure,” Livingston said.
Los Angeles is a mecca for off-season pickup games, involving NBA players, and Livingston said he hopes to be able to play in those games, without any restraint.
But first things, first. The Clippers have until June 30 to tender the 22-year old Livingston a qualifying offer of $5.8 million. Otherwise, he would become an unrestricted free agent, the following day.
“I’d like to have my contract situation worked out, before I do anything, as far as any five-on-five, open gym stuff,” Livingston said. “But if not…hey, I’ve been sitting out too long.”
Livingston said his agent, Henry Thomas, and the Clippers are not actively negotiating but discussions are certain to resume soon.
“Really, I know (the Clippers) want to wait and see what I’ve got and what I’m going to be able to do, and my limitations and restrictions,” Livingston said. “But I think people are going to be fairly surprised.”
Livingston said he does not know what the Clippers’ decision would be, in regards to the June 30th deadline.
“They could pick it up, they could let it go, to see what’s out there for me,” he said. “All I can do is to be here every day, working out, getting better, and getting ready for next season.”
Obviously, Livingston would like the Clippers to tender him the qualifying offer.
“Definitely,” Livingston said. “But I anticipate being back with the Clippers, regardless if it’s with the qualifying offer or whatever the deal is. I look forward to being back, because I’d like to stay in L.A. But it’s whatever direction they decide to go in. I’m on board to be playing, wherever that is.”
There are clear indications from Clippers coach Mike Dunleavy and vice president of basketball operations Elgin Baylor that they want Livingston back, only not at $5.8 million.
Including the entire 82-game season he missed this year, injuries have cost Livingston 181 games out of a possible 324 games since his rookie season in 2004-2005.
“I would definitely understand but on the other hand I know that I’m competitive and I know what I’m going to bring to the table,” Livingston said. “It’s going to be an asset and assets aren’t necessarily free.
“On the other hand, I’m not out here asking for Gilbert Arenas money. I recognize the situation. I’m not naive. I understand that it’s a business. But I’m out here to play ball and make teams better. That’s what I look forward to doing for the Clippers.”
Livingston said at times it has been mentally excruciating, not being able to play the game that he has loved for so long.
“That’s why when I get back, it’s going to be even more of an anticipation,” he said. “I’m going to have an even more harder drive and a deeper hunger.”
