NO PLACE LIKE HOME FOR STRUGGLING CLIPS L.A. STIFLES MINNESOTA, ENDS STREAK CLIPPERS 92, MINNESOTA 86.

Byline: Joe Stevens Staff Writer

After 25 days away from Staples Center, the Clippers returned home Thursday night, which was what was needed to help a season had been spiraling out of control.

The Clippers held eight-time NBA All-Star Kevin Garnett to 14 points, and Chris Kaman came up with two big baskets as they snapped their three-week, eight-game losing streak with a 92-86 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in front of 18,569.

Minnesota never led, but pulled to within 74-72 with 3:04 left. The Clippers led by 16 points in the first quarter, and appeared to be headed for another fourth-quarter collapse.

But Chris Kaman came up with two consecutive baskets to give the Clippers control down the stretch and a 78-72 lead with 2:40 left.

The Wolves never got closer than six points.

Elton Brand scored 24 points and had seven rebounds, and Corey Maggette added 23 points for the Clippers.

Every Clippers starter scored in double figures, except for Rick Brunson, who finished with 10 assists.

Garnett, who played 31 minutes because of foul trouble, scored 14 points on 6-of-16 shooting. His season low for points is 12. He also was held to eight rebounds and two assists.

Wally Szczerbiak led the Timberwolves with 15 points on 6-of-8 shooting.

The Clippers had the advantage inside as they outrebounded the Wolves 43-38 with Kaman grabbing a team-high 10 rebounds. They also forced the Wolves into 16 turnovers.

With the Clippers weathering an eight-game losing streak, they stand at 24-31, 5 1/2 games behind the Lakers for the eighth and final spot for the Western Conference playoffs.

CAPTION(S):

photo, 2 boxes

Photo:

(color) Clippers forward Elton Brand tries to power past Michael Olowokandi on Thursday at Staples Center.

Edna T. Simpson/Daily News

Box:

(1) FEBRUARY FLOP

(2) GAME RECAP