LAKER WATCH : Jones Gets the Point as Other Guard

Supposedly, the Lakers were down to only one point guard, Sedale Threatt, after Van Exel and Magic Johnson went on the suspended list at the same time near the end of the regular season. Then they found out otherwise.

Eddie Jones, having already proven his versatility as a starting shooting guard who can have an impact in the frontcourt with a small lineup, impressed Harris with his emergency duty at the point. This after getting only 11 minutes there for what was basically the first two seasons of his pro career.

“I think it’s a position he can play any time we need him to play it,” Harris said. “He’s just a natural player. He’s got a good feel for the game and a good handle on the ball.”

That much was no surprise--Jones finished third in the NBA in assist-to-turnover ratio this season. But to do it as the primary ballhandler, when defenders are playing you for something other than coming off screens, is another matter.

“That first game at Vancouver, when Nick was out and Magic was out with injuries [Feb. 28], I was kind of unsure, like ‘What’s this job about?’ ” Jones said. “But now, after a few games under my belt, I feel more comfortable there.”

He doesn’t have to worry too much about it. With the Lakers back at full strength, he’s back as fourth-string there.