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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Thursday, October 11, 2007

Lakers' Jackson not upset with loss

Associated Press

Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

Phil Jackson

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NBA PRESEASON

What: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors

When: Tonight, 7 p.m.

Where: Stan Sheriff Center

Cost: $10-$35 upper level; $45-$80 lower level. Senior and military discounts available

Information: 944-2697 or www.eTicketHawaii.com

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A day after a one-point loss to Golden State in the preseason opener, Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson was fairly pleased with his team's performance.

The Lakers coach got 17 points from his all-star, Kobe Bryant. But it was Vladimir Radmanovic who led L.A. in scoring with 20, including five 3-pointers, in the 111-110 loss Tuesday night.

"A lot of his shots were on broken plays, some of which he broke off himself," Jackson said yesterday. "I told him, 'You redeemed yourself.' "

Jackson said Bryant, held scoreless until late in the third quarter, has to distinguish when to score and when to pass.

"He might not be able to do both roles (at the same time). He passed too often in the first quarter, but when things became frustrating for him in the third, he took over," Jackson said. "When he's getting double-teamed, he should get 10 to 12 assists. He can get scoring from another aspect of the game."

Rookie Javaris Crittenton performed well in his Lakers debut. He was 5-of-9 from the field and 7-for-7 at the line, finishing with 18 points, second only to Radmanovic.

"I wanted to get out there and work hard," said the rookie from Georgia Tech. "Coach Jackson gave me the opportunity. I waited patiently on the bench, something I'm not used to, but I'm going to have to. It was fun though."

Crittenton, who was taken with the 18th overall pick in April's NBA draft, entered the game in the second quarter, replacing Jordan Farmar.

Although he scored his share of points Tuesday, Crittenton knows that won't necessarily be his role as a point guard, especially with Bryant on the floor.

"I can do both. I'll take what the defense gives me," Crittenton said.

Kwame Brown did not practice yesterday, but he did shoot around later. He will not play in tonight's game against the Warriors at the Stan Sheriff Center.

"He hasn't had two consecutive days where he's felt comfortable," Jackson said.

Maurice Evans sustained a strained left hamstring in Tuesday's game and is listed as day-to-day.

Luke Walton did not play in Tuesday's exhibition, but did practice yesterday and Jackson said he is hopeful Walton will see action tonight.