He’s Seeking Underhanded Solution

News Item: The Lakers lose to Utah by five points as Shaq misses 12 free throws.

Memo to MVP O’Neal, Ego Dept.: Please, Shaq. The fans would prefer you shoot free throws underhand, make 70% and win more games than be stubborn and make less than half.

You have the ring. Now, with a soft flick of the wrists from your waist, you become the complete player your ego has denied you. The underhand style will win our roaring support.

RICK WALLACE, Malibu

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You have heard of the arrogance of a champion. Well, at the Lakers’ opening game in Portland you had the opportunity to see it.

Midway through the first quarter, Kobe Bryant got his second foul and was headed for the bench. A Hollywood moment on Halloween night: Whom would the “Great Deep Thinker” send into the game at their first challenge of the new season? Would it be Rider? Naw. George or Shaw? Naw. Are you ready for this? Tyronn Lue! Now that should put the fear of God into the Trail Blazers and all of the other teams in the NBA!

ROBERT W. TALAROWSKI, Mission Viejo

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I was reading Mark Heisler’s column [Oct. 30] on the Phil Jackson-Jerry West relationship and after reading five or six paragraphs I thought I was reading the Enquirer. Mr. Heisler made 13 references in his article about West telling a friend something or confidants saying things or insiders or people close to him or backstage speculation.

If I need tabloid journalism I can pick it up at the supermarket checkout stand.

MICKEY MANDELL, West Hills