Fisher Likely to Remain a Starter

Derek Fisher’s steady play at point guard probably has earned him the starting role for the rest of the season, Coach Kurt Rambis said before Monday’s game against the Dallas Mavericks.

In his previous five games, Fisher had 24 assists and only seven turnovers, getting the bulk of time even as Derek Harper, the starter for most of this season, had been worked back into heavier rotation. He had another eight assists, tying a season high, on Monday.

“I just like the way it’s kind of evolved with this team right now,” Rambis said. “He starts, Harp gives us a big lift coming off the bench, and [rookie Tyronn Lue’s] kind of a spot-minute guy.”

On this glamour club, Fisher has specialized in making full-body dives, taking full-speed charges and absorbing full-throttle picks.

“I love that kind of energy,” Rambis said. “I love that aggressive play. It doesn’t hurt me one bit if he gets hurt. . . .

“That’s what he does, he sacrifices his body for the benefit of the team. I love somebody who does that.”

A few minutes after Rambis’ statements, Fisher said he was willing to do anything to maintain the team’s momentum going into the playoffs.

“At this point, whatever has to be done to keep us playing the way we’ve been playing, that’s what I’m for--if it was coming off the bench, starting, finishing, whatever,” Fisher said.

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As the Lakers eye their upcoming first-round playoff matchup with Houston and Charles Barkley, starting power forward J.R. Reid becomes an increasingly key figure in the low post.

Reid, acquired along with Glen Rice on March 10, says he still is adjusting to life with the Lakers, especially alongside an offensive presence as dominating as Shaquille O’Neal.

“You have to learn where his passes come from, his sweet spots, where he likes the ball,” Reid said.

“I’ve played with some good players before, but I’ve never played with anyone like Shaq. I’ve played with Pat Ewing, but they’re two totally different types of centers.

“Shaq posts up in the lane, you give him the ball anywhere in the paint and he’s going to score a majority of the time.”