‘Perfect’ Job Might Lure West

Jerry West, a consultant to the Lakers since resigning as executive vice president after the 1999-2000 season, would leave the organization for “the perfect situation,” according to a source close to West and the club, but so far he is content in semi-retirement.

Since he left the Lakers, West has denied various reports that said he was close to taking jobs elsewhere, most recently in Atlanta. West, 63, the builder of a Laker dynasty in the 1980s and a budding one now, remains a highly sought executive. But, the source said, nothing has yet met West’s rigid requirements of opportunity and challenge.

“If the right opportunity presented itself, he would move on,” the source said. “Until he sees it, however, it is impossible to know what it is. He is eyeing nothing right now. But, he will work [full-time] again.”

West remains on the Laker payroll and is a frequent contributor to decisions of personnel and philosophy, though General Manager Mitch Kupchak and Coach Phil Jackson are the primary basketball decision-makers. West was with the team in training camp in Honolulu, but insists on a low profile.

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If it had been up to Robert Horry, the Lakers would have practiced at least once last weekend, between losses to Sacramento and Seattle.

Jackson gave the Lakers Saturday and Sunday off, though a handful of players turned out for an optional Saturday practice. After a practice Monday, the team looked ragged Tuesday against the SuperSonics.

“We should have at least done a skills thing, something,” Horry said. “But that’s just for me. That’s just my opinion.”

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The White House canceled the Lakers’ scheduled visit on Jan. 7 because of a change in President Bush’s schedule. The team is hoping to reschedule for Jan. 28, a day off between games in Philadelphia and Atlanta.

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Brian Shaw practiced Thursday after sitting out Wednesday because of a sprained left ankle. He is expected to be available tonight against the Clippers.

TONIGHT

Lakers vs. Clippers

7:30, Fox Sports Net

Site--Staples Center.

Radio--KLAC (570), KXTA (1150).

Records--Lakers 16-3, Clippers 12-10.

Record vs. Clippers--1-0.

Update--The Lakers beat the Clippers, 98-93, before 20,316 on Nov. 20. This is a home game for the Lakers, and the Clippers have yet to win a road game.

Tickets--(800) 462-2849.