Peeler Sidelined Because of Sprained Wrist

Rookie guard Anthony Peeler will be sidelined for at least 10 days because of a sprained left wrist, the Lakers said Friday. But because of a light February schedule and the All-Star break next weekend, Peeler might sit out only two games, Sunday’s against the Atlanta Hawks at the Forum and Thursday’s against the Trail Blazers at Portland.

Peeler, the Lakers’ first-round pick and 15th overall in last year’s college draft, suffered what trainer Gary Vitti described as a moderate sprain when he fell during a game sometime in the last month. A Laker spokesman said Peeler was not sure when the injury occurred. Tests showed no broken bones, but Peeler’s wrist was put in a splint.

Peeler is averaging 10.8 points, but only seven over his last four games. Perhaps reflecting the effects of his injury, his shooting percentage in the last four games was 26.5%. He still is shooting 48.6% overall and leads the Lakers in three-pointers, having made 26 of 64 for 40.6%.

A Laker spokesman said no personnel move is planned because Peeler won’t go on the injured list.

Peeler’s injury might result in more playing time for fellow rookie Duane Cooper, who has been the first guard in reserve in the last three games, and for Tony Smith, who has not played in four of the last five games.