Hunter Bad at the Line

You know you’re not going like Rick Barry when Shaquille O’Neal leans in with some free-throw advice.

During Lindsey Hunter’s 0-for-6 30 seconds from the line late Tuesday night, O’Neal gave his expertise.

“I said if he doesn’t make it I’m going to whip his [butt],” O’Neal said.

It didn’t help, but Hunter was still intact by game time Wednesday.

“Didn’t cost us,” O’Neal said. “So, he’ll be all right.”

It was a long 24 hours for Hunter, who clanked those six free throws, then flew to Denver. The Lakers did not hold a shoot-around Wednesday morning, so the next time Hunter had a basketball in his hands was about 90 minutes before the game against the Nuggets.

Hunter has missed 10 consecutive free throws, all in the fourth quarter, and 13 of his last 14. He did not have an attempt in the Lakers’ 89-68 victory against the Nuggets. On the season, he is five for 19 (26.3%).

Before coming to L.A., Hunter shot 75.1% from the line for his career, and 80.2% for Milwaukee last season.

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Like almost everyone else, Phil Jackson has seen enough of the Washington Wizards, at least on national television.

“I know they’re not ready for prime time yet,” Jackson said of Michael Jordan’s 2-8 gang.

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Assistant coach Frank Hamblen did not make the trip for personal reasons. Tex Winter was in his familiar place beside Jackson on Wednesday night. ... Jackson said he’d decide today if he’ll activate Derek Fisher and Mark Madsen in time for Friday’s game against Golden State. He might give them both a full practice Saturday, then bring them off the injured list for Sunday’s game against Denver.