Sam Cassell was looking for some understanding. He thinks he got it Wednesday from Clippers coach Mike Dunleavy. With that, Cassell took his physical and looked forward to his new start with the Clippers.

"I had to get some things straight before I came out here," said Cassell, whom the Clippers acquired Aug.12 from the Minnesota Timberwolves in a sign-and-trade deal involving guard Marko Jaric.

The Clippers tentatively scheduled Cassell to come to Los Angeles four days after the trade. But Cassell did not consider himself on board until he had a discussion with Dunleavy regarding his role.

Though indications are that second-year player Shaun Livingston will be the starting point guard this season, Cassell has a different opinion.

"I'll be starting at the one (point guard)," said Cassell, who will be 36 two weeks into the coming season. "Shaun's going to be good one day, but he's not ready for this right now. I can't come off the bench for this team. If this team had a certified All-Star in front of me, then I could understand that. But that's not the case. I realize that Shaun is the future point guard for this team, but what am I supposed to do, lay down? If that's the case, then I shouldn't be here."