Sports Arena Stats Questioned

The Lakers are planning to file a complaint with the league office Monday to protest what they believe is the latest example of one of their players being deliberately slighted by Clipper statisticians when the teams play at the Sports Arena.

John Black, the Lakers’ public relations director, said he will send a letter to NBA vice president of communications Brian McIntyre and ask that the league review film from Friday’s game and recount the number of assists for Nick Van Exel. Black’s contention is that Van Exel, the point guard, should have been credited with more than five assists when playing 33 minutes in a game in which the Lakers scored 125 points, or more than two assists in 17 minutes, during which the Lakers scored 72 points.

“It’s not the first time I’ve had a disagreement with these people here,” Black said. “In my opinion, they are purposely [shorting] us on the stats.

“It’s not fair. I have no complaint with the Clipper front office, just with their stat crew.”

No Clipper statistician was immediately available for comment.

*

Sean Rooks had precautionary X-rays of his left foot after the game Friday night. They showed no damage, but the reserve center said he wasn’t injured in the first place. He practiced Saturday and will be available tonight.

TONIGHT

vs.

Charlotte

* 6:30

* Fox Sports

West

Site--Great Western Forum.

Radio--KLAC (570), KWKW (1330).

Records--Lakers 27-8, Hornets 21-13.

Record vs. Hornets--1-0.

Update--Winners of five of their last six and nine of 11, the Lakers face a team with a winning record for only the second time since Christmas. The Hornets have won two in a row, including a victory at Portland, and bring one of the premier shooters in Glen Rice, who is 51.1% on three-point attempts over the last 27 games.