Van Exel Will Say When He Starts

Putting the decision in the hands of Nick Van Exel before putting the ball back in his hands, Coach Del Harris said he has left it up to Van Exel to make the call when he will regain his job as the starting point guard.

Van Exel promptly volunteered that maybe Derek Fisher should keep the spot for now, considering the success the Lakers had with Fisher. Harris made it clear that wasn’t really an option, demonstrating that the coach would have something to say about the lineup change after all.

“I told him that was admirable, but I told him him I’d like him to come back when he’s comfortable and ready,” Harris said.

Wednesday’s game against the Phoenix Suns marked the third consecutive reserve appearance for Van Exel, still working back to full strength after sitting out a month because of a troublesome right knee that eventually underwent arthroscopic surgery. It was also the 16th start in a row for Fisher, during which time the Lakers are 11-5.

Fisher already has been dealing with the return of Van Exel, if not yet a return to his usual role as a substitute, noting, “I’m not really pressing, but knowing at any time, whether after eight minutes or 10 minutes, that Nick is coming into the game,” and that it will be an adjustment, “I can’t lie to you.”

But exactly when the inevitable switch is made, and the all-star goes back in the opening lineup, apparently will be left up to Van Exel, who played 27 minutes against Phoenix, getting eight points, seven assists and five rebounds.

“I know he’s a team guy,” Harris said of Van Exel. “He would be willing not to start. But I’d rather see him back in there when he’s comfortable.

“The natural order of things is for starters to be starters and guys who fill in for them to come off the bench.”