Shaq Starting to Feel Bullish About Return

Shaquille O’Neal said Thursday afternoon that he hoped to return to the Lakers on Nov. 22 against the Chicago Bulls at Staples Center, with or without the pain that lingers from his toe surgery.

He is scheduled to meet with his surgeon late next week, and could be cleared to play then. O’Neal said he would “probably not” play in any of the four games before that, but that he probably would accompany the team on a two-game trip to Texas early next week, perhaps keeping open that option.

“All of this will be over soon,” O’Neal said.

After a day off for most of the Lakers on Wednesday, O’Neal returned to the practice floor Thursday and performed better than he had in recent practices, inspiring optimism among his teammates.

And yet, Rick Fox said, “Any practice Shaq participates in is a joyous one.”

If he does return against the Bulls, O’Neal will have sat out 12 games.

“It sounds plausible,” Coach Phil Jackson said. “I felt like today he had the best practice that he’s had.”

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Samaki Walker suffered a mild sprain of his left ankle in Thursday’s practice. He is probable for tonight’s game against the Golden State Warriors.... Devean George is doubtful.

TONIGHT

vs. Golden State

7:30, Fox Sports Net

Site -- Staples Center.

Radio -- KLAC (570), KWKW (1330, Spanish).

Records -- Lakers 2-6, Warriors 2-7.

Record vs. Warriors (2001-02) -- 3-1.

Update -- The Warriors are 1-5 on the road, but the Lakers are vulnerable no matter where they are; they’ve won one of three home games. Gilbert Arenas (16.4 points, 7.4 assists) is showing potential as a point guard for the Warriors, and Antawn Jamison is averaging 26.3 points.