Jackson Gives George a Nudge

In his third professional season and headed for free agency in the summer, Devean George not only has played himself into Phil Jackson’s rotation, but into a critical role in the Laker three-peat bid.

He has averaged more than 20 minutes, had some big offensive moments and often draws a pivotal defensive assignment.

In 45 games this season, George already has played more minutes than in his first two seasons combined.

And yet, lately, Jackson is not entirely pleased.

“He got complacent,” Jackson said. “I think he thought it was going to be natural and fall into place. He’s got to get back to working a little bit harder. I haven’t talked to him about that, so you guys can talk to him.”

Jackson grinned warily, knowing the news would travel quickly to George, knowing that’s not exactly how he wanted to send the message. Predictably, George was dismayed by the job review, then was 0 for four from the field and 0 for two from the line in the Lakers’ 101-94 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, though his defense was typically taut.

“I’m not going to score every night like I do certain games,” he said. “My niche is energy and defense. We’ve already got our scorers.”

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Jackson intended to discuss the coming week with Shaquille O’Neal on the flight home Sunday night. The club has considered having O’Neal sit out Wednesday’s game against the Chicago Bulls, then play short minutes in the All-Star game.

“We have to keep perspective of the overall season and what we’re going to be like in March, which is a grinding month for us,” Jackson said. “... If [resting it this week] is one of the things that makes his toe not symptomatic, then he has to get after it.”

O’Neal said he has yet to reach a conclusion, but that he would be examined today by team physicians Phil Kwong, a foot specialist, and Steve Lombardo.

Tim Brown