Peeler Out, Campbell Doubtful, Christie Questionable for Opener

The Lakers on Wednesday all but ruled two starters out for the first two games of the regular season, saying guard Anthony Peeler will be sidelined because of tendinitis in his knee and listing forward Elden Campbell as a “strong doubtful” because of a sprained ankle.

The status of Doug Christie also is uncertain. The projected starting small forward, he practiced at full speed for the first time Wednesday since spraining his ankle in the Oct. 15 exhibition opener, and club spokesman John Black said Christie would play Friday night against Phoenix at the Forum. But Coach Randy Pfund isn’t so sure.

“I didn’t think he looked ready,” Pfund said. “To me, he looks a long way off in his conditioning. I’d have to see him (today).”

Things figure to be tough enough for the Lakers even without the injuries, opening with games against possibly the three toughest teams in the Western Conference. After the game against the Suns on Friday, they travel to Seattle for the SuperSonics’ season debut Saturday and then return to the Forum Tuesday to face the Portland Trail Blazers.