Lakers’ Big Men Under the Microscope

George Mikan was probably no better a shooter than Shaquille O’Neal, yet by shooting free throws underhanded, his career percentage was .778. Wilt Chamberlain was a poor shooter from 15 feet, so he shot underhand for a while and had a .613 percentage one season.

I suspect the shame and embarrassment that O’Neal would undergo by trying some old-fashioned shot just wouldn’t be worth it. And who’s going to suggest it to him?

AL BENSON

El Cajon

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Open letter to Shaquille O’Neal:

Wilt Chamberlain never fouled out of a game.

At the end of close games, other teams did not foul Wilt on purpose to send him to the foul line.

Wilt has two championship rings, you’ve got zero.

Wilt’s movie “Conan the Destroyer” was better than yours.

Your tattoo “This World Is Mine” should be covered up for a while.

MATTHEW BERNSTEIN

Los Angeles

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Congratulations to the Lakers for giving Elden Campbell $49 million. He has once again this season proved his worth. He is rebounding, scoring points like crazy, getting loads of minutes and most of all he sticks to his man.

And if you believe all of this, I have some prime land for you west of Malibu.

DAVID MARTIN

Sherman Oaks