Jerry Zgoda's short takes: March 25

He's showing his age, really he is Former Lakers guard Derek Fisher signed with rival Oklahoma City and immediately pulled on a No. 37 jersey that equals his age. It is a pointed reply to those, including his former team, who believe he's too old to contribute to a contender again.

"There are a number of reasons why this opportunity presented itself," he said. "It seemed to be a negative thing for so long, and especially this season, that I was 37. So I just wanted to send a message ... that I'm a guy who can still help a team be successful and compete for a championship. I figured since everybody likes to throw my age around, I'd let everybody know I'm 37 but I can do some great things to help this team."

Defending Vinny Clippers guard Chris Paul on Thursday received a standing ovation from New Orleans fans for all he has done to help the city when he returned there to play for the first time since forcing a trade in December. They were standing again at game's end, after the Hornets won and the Clippers were left to defend embattled coach Vinny Del Negro after they lost their third consecutive game and eight of their past 12.

"Coaches come and go in this league," Clippers forward Kenyon Martin told the Los Angeles Times after the game. "We all know players make this league. But until we go out and play, we can't always point the finger at the coach. That ain't always the issue."