With the impending suspensions of Eddy Curry and Antonio Davis, it's possible that unheralded rookie Jared Reiner could be "the man in the middle" when the season-opening lineup is introduced Nov. 5.

"I have to make the team first," the self-deprecating Reiner said.

His Monday stint?six points and six rebounds in 16 minutes?likely sealed a roster spot. Coach Scott Skiles also could go small with a lineup featuring Tyson Chandler at center.

"I thought I played pretty well this camp," Reiner said. "I try to do the little things?rebound and play defense."

Like Chris Duhon, the 6-foot-11-inch, 255-pound Reiner has complicated management's plans to cut non-guaranteed contracts.