Elliott Teaford of the Los Angeles Times reports: Elton Brand wants to play again before the regular season ends and hopes to re-sign with the Los Angeles Clippers this offseason.

Brand, who has missed the past month with a stress fracture above his left knee, hopes to be cleared to play again on Monday.

He also hopes to return to the Clippers next season with a big-money deal.

"The thing is, with me, everything seems to work out. Even with the tough times we've had this season, there's a light at the end of the tunnel."

Finally, Brand thinks their is a chance that Clippers Owner Donald Sterling will finally open up his wallet this summer.

"I think, if there's ever a time, it could be this summer," he said. "I know the Clippers' track record isn't good. I know everyone is not going to be here next season, but if we could keep this core group together ... "