It’s hard at top for Kaman

When the Clippers have faced the NBA’s top teams this season, center Chris Kaman hasn’t been at his best.

He is shooting only 36.5% from the field and averaging 8.9 points in eight games against the Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, San Antonio Spurs and Detroit Pistons.

In Monday’s 88-74 loss to the Spurs at Staples Center, Kaman scored six points on two-of-10 shooting from the field. Overall, Kaman is averaging 10.1 points and shooting 45%.

“I’m not worried about him because he works hard and he takes responsibility for himself,” Coach Mike Dunleavy said.

“He watches film, he goes over what he needs to do and he works. He doesn’t blame other people for his mistakes.”

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Point guard Jason Hart scored nine points in his Clippers debut and practiced with the team for the first time Tuesday.

Shaun Livingston might miss the 2007-08 season because of a potentially career-ending knee injury and fellow point guard Sam Cassell, 37, has been sidelined because of injuries often this season.

Livingston and Cassell have guaranteed contracts for next season, but Hart could return to the team as a starter if things go well for him in the Clippers’ last 22 games.

“It’s definitely an audition,” Hart said. “I’m very grateful for that, but you still have to go out and play the right way.”

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