Dehere Is a Key on Defense Too

Guard Terry Dehere, who has averaged 12.8 points in the Clippers’ last five games, played a key role in Monday’s 122-121 overtime victory over the Phoenix Suns.

Dehere, who scored five points in the final 46 seconds, also played tight defense on Sam Cassell’s desperation shot at the end of the game, switching from Kevin Johnson to Cassell, who shot an airball.

“I think we showed a lot of character to be down [by seven points in the fourth quarter] and come back,” Dehere said.

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Swingman Charles Outlaw may be the Clippers’ most valuable reserve.

Outlaw, who has averaged 13 points, six rebounds and 2.9 blocked shots in his last three games, had season highs of 15 points, five blocks and 34 minutes against the Suns.