Laker Watch : NBA Playoffs / First Round : Peeler Could Sit Out Two Games

The encouraging sign of Anthony Peeler jogging at the end of Laker practice Wednesday at the Forum, an indication that his strained right calf muscle is improving enough so that he could return Saturday, was followed by the discouraging comments from Coach Del Harris:

“I would suspect Tuesday is more realistic. That’s just a coach’s opinion.”

In other words, Peeler is not only out for Game 1 against the Houston Rockets tonight, as expected, but there is a good chance he will also sit out Game 2 on Saturday. One of the Lakers’ hottest shooters could very well be out until Tuesday, when the series shifts to the Summit.

Trainer Gary Vitti said Peeler’s injury has made “significant improvement.” But the backup shooting guard has only ridden a stationary bike and done some light jogging since straining the muscle Sunday and has yet to go through a workout or try jumping off it.

“The pain is going away,” Peeler said. “But I’ve got to wait until I practice and then go from there.”

Meanwhile, Vlade Divac said the strained lower back that kept him out of last Saturday’s game has improved from about 70% strength on Sunday to 90%-95% after the Lakers went through their final practice in preparation for the Rockets.

How Tough Is It? Just Ask Magic

Magic Johnson heads into the playoffs for the 13th time in his career. Never, he said, has there been a tougher opening series, and not only for the Lakers.

“Without a doubt,” said Johnson, who has won five championships with the Lakers but none since 1988. “This will be the toughest first-round series for anybody in the NBA as long as I’ve been around.”