The Los Angeles Clippers are in front of the New Jersey Nets 31-17, after a first quarter that included a 16-0 run and 15 points from Caron Butler. Blake Griffin pulled down five rebounds and contributed eight points; his counterpart Kris Humphries pulled down four but did not score. The Clippers are 4-0 at home this season when leading after the first quarter.
Courtney Fortson, who was promoted from the D-league earlier today, made his NBA debut toward the end of the quarter wearing number 17 and relieving Randy Foye. He promptly contributed two assists. Chauncey Billups only went six and a half minutes before he was replaced by Ryan Gomes and the Clippers went on their run.
Things eventually settled down at Staples Center, with Johan Petro leading the Nets with six points off the bench. The Clippers got out to their customary hot start, and now the main factors will be the battle between Griffin and Humphries, along with the rebound battle. The Clippers currently lead the rebound battle 16-10.