Injury Keeps O’Neal Out of Practice

Shaquille O’Neal, undergoing treatment for his strained right groin, did not participate in Saturday’s practice and said he wasn’t sure if he will play today against the Indiana Pacers.

O’Neal said he didn’t feel worse than he did Thursday when he sat out a loss at Minnesota. During practice at L.A. Southwest College, he worked out with his abdominal specialist, Alex McKechnie.

“When I wake up in the morning, I’ll see how I feel,” O’Neal said. “Now that my man Alex is here, I’m not worried. I’m cool.”

Said Coach Del Harris: “He’s still day-to-day--doesn’t mean he won’t play. We’re ready either way.”

O’Neal averaged 26.5 points and 10.5 rebounds against the Pacers last season in the Lakers’ 2-0 sweep, including 29 points (and a 13-for-15 free-throw shooting performance) in the final game, last March 4.

vs. Indiana

2:30, Channel 4

* Site--Great Western Forum.

* Radio--KLAC (570).

* Records--Lakers 3-2; Pacers 3-2.

* Record vs. Pacers (1997-98)--2-0.

* Update--The Pacers are in the middle of a three-game West Coast swing which started with a victory at Vancouver on Thursday. The Lakers are starting a four-game home stand.

* Tickets--Sold out.