Malone’s Hand Remains Swollen

Karl Malone’s right hand was swollen Monday afternoon, the day after he slammed it into Rick Fox’s mouth, and trainer Gary Vitti recommended that Malone undergo further testing.

After Vitti gently pressed several spots below Malone’s pinkie, Malone nodded and said he’d already been in contact with Dr. Ralph Venuto, his personal physician, and said they intended to meet.

On Monday evening, team officials were unsure whether Malone followed through on the appointment.

Venuto provided a second opinion and treatment after Malone suffered a torn ligament in his right knee in December.

Malone said X-rays taken after Sunday night’s game against the Utah Jazz showed a previous break of the fifth metacarpal bone in his hand. Malone said he suffered the injury more than two years ago.

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Shaquille O’Neal declined to talk to reporters for a second day. He did, however, kiss one, affectionately wrapping his hands around a reporter’s head and kissing his cheek on the way off the floor.

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Kobe Bryant had one of those games on Sunday night, when he took the offense out of the hands of teammates who’d hoped to have a larger role.

Although more than a few grumbled about it immediately afterward, by Monday it had become less of an issue. Coach Phil Jackson said he discussed ball movement and spacing with the team during practice.

Fox shrugged.

“I don’t expect that to be an issue that will cost us a championship,” he said.

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If the Lakers and Sacramento Kings finish in a tie for first place in the Pacific Division and in their season series, the next tie-breaker would be their records within the Western Conference.

The Kings are 29-15; the Lakers 26-18.