West Tries to Get Message Across

Jerry West speaks. At least to the troops.

While still opting against issuing a public statement of support for Coach Del Harris, not wanting to have to do it every time a two-game losing streak comes, the Lakers’ executive vice president did write a letter to all players and staff members that was part inspirational, part indicative of his frustration. Each team member found a copy at his locker stall upon arriving for Friday’s game against the San Antonio Spurs.

“Each of you are on the verge of letting this season slip right through your fingers,” the one-page letter began.

It concluded:

“You need to think ‘winning’ 24 hours a day. You need to be consumed with Laker pride, to see purple and gold in your sleep, to keep your bodies in the best possible condition, to work hard, to get the proper amount of rest, to think positive. You need to have personal pride in knowing that you are the best team players that you can be.

“Only one team will be champion. That team will have worked their butts off to get there, that team will know each other’s every move, every thought. That team will be a machine that’s fueled with compassion, desire, determination, drive, devotion and pride.

“That team could and should be the Lakers.

“Sincerely,

“JERRY WEST”

Said Harris: “I think that’s indicative of the kind of leadership Jerry West has shown over the years. It’s a nice touch.”

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When Shaquille O’Neal made 13 of 15 free throws Wednesday against Indiana, it marked his best showing as a Laker with at least 10 attempts and the third-best of his career. He twice went 12 of 12 while with the Orlando Magic.