They Look Better in Practices

Coach Kurt Rambis called the two practices since Tuesday’s two clear-the-air team meetings the best the Lakers have had all season, and said he hopes they translate into more fervent play tonight against Portland.

“Are these two practices going to cure all of our ills?” Rambis said Wednesday. “Probably not, but it’s a step in the right direction. . . . “I think everybody, in clearing the air, they feel good, it’s like a burden has been released from them, getting things off their chests.”

*

Shaquille O’Neal at first said he’d have no response to Wilt Chamberlain’s recent criticisms of his play. But eventually, O’Neal smiled, and said:

“My grandfather taught me not to speak ill of the elderly.”

Then later: “I hope I don’t become as miserable as him when I retire.”

TONIGHT

vs. Portland

Fox Sports West, 7:30

* Site--Great Western Forum.

* Radio--KLAC (570).

* Records--Lakers 27-19, Trail Blazers 34-11.

* Record vs. Trail Blazers--0-2.

* Update--Portland, San Antonio and Utah are battling for the Western Conference No. 1 seeding when the playoffs start May 8, which now becomes of immediate interest to the Lakers. If the Lakers, who clinched a spot when Portland lost Wednesday, dive to No. 6 behind Phoenix, they will have to face San Antonio or Utah, whichever doesn’t win the Midwest Division title. If the Lakers fend off Phoenix, they will face Houston.

* Tickets--Sold out.