When Do the Lakers Start the Playoffs?

Dear Dr. Buss,

I’d like you to consider me for coach of the Lakers. I don’t have any coaching experience but neither did Pat Riley when you hired him and look what he did.

My first job as coach would be to return the Lakers to the type of team they were during the Showtime era. We’re going to need players who are interested in playing team ball. Unfortunately, this may mean we are going to trade a couple of players. Well, one in particular.

I am willing to accept far less than the $10 million a year you’re planning on offering Phil Jackson. If nothing else, you can hire me at Phil’s salary for one game, and if it doesn’t work out, I’ll resign, take the $122,000 and disappear.

Steven Horowitz

Los Angeles

Jerry Buss is on vacation. A vacation from what?

Jack Spiegelman

Los Angeles

I think it would be a very good idea if Shaq would wear No. 8 during the playoffs as a gesture to Kobe Bryant, as this will be the closest that Kobe will get to the playoffs for a long time.

Sanford Aaronson

Santa Monica