Harris Stresses the Fundamentals

The Lakers’ margin for error isn’t as wide with Shaquille O’Neal sidelined, so Coach Del Harris is preaching an increased commitment to detail.

Harris wants the Lakers to do more of the little things well, especially on defense, while they await the return of their star center. Harris is reinforcing the concept with drills during practice, focusing on man-to-man situations and overall team defense.

“Shaq is such a presence that when he isn’t playing we miss his dominance in the paint,” Harris said. “The irony of it is that Shaq didn’t get a single vote from any of the league’s coaches for [the all-defensive teams] last season, and yet he’s one of the top shot blockers in the league.

“Just his presence in the paint alone is intimidating to other teams. These are things we have to compensate for, and we have to do a better job one on one containing our man. That’s what we have to understand.”

“Not having Shaq puts a higher premium on execution on both ends of the court. We can still win, but we just have to make fewer mistakes now.”

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Kobe Bryant enjoys reviewing game tapes. After watching his last two games, Bryant saw much he can improve.

“You always see things better on tape than when you’re out there going through it,” said Bryant, averaging 15.4 points but often out of control on offense recently. “You can put things into effect to improve when you see it on tape.”

TONIGHT

at Denver

* 5 PST

* Channel 9

Site--McNichols Arena.

Radio--KLAC (570).

Records--Lakers 13-2, Nuggets 1-13.

Record vs. Nuggets (1996-97)--4-0.

Update--Eddie Jones (muscle cramps) and Corie Blount (ankle sprain) were held out of contact drills during practice Tuesday but are expected to play tonight. The Nuggets defeated Minnesota, 95-84, on Friday, their first victory after opening the season with 12 losses, before falling to Houston on Tuesday, 112-101.