O’Neal Doubtful Because of Foot

Shaquille O’Neal has new pain in his left foot, away from the summer surgery on his left small toe and away from the arthritic condition in his right big toe, according to a team official, who said O’Neal was “probably doubtful” for tonight’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Team physician Steve Lombardo will examine O’Neal before the game. Spokesman John Black said O’Neal had pain in his fifth metatarsal, compounding his persistent foot problems.

O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, who has a strain in his right side, were kept out of the physical parts of Monday’s practice, which consisted of film work, weighlifting and light shooting. Bryant probably will play, but also is scheduled to be examined by Lombardo, who will help make the final determination.

Laker Coach Phil Jackson said he was unconcerned by the injuries, and that he would play who he could.

“I have no expectations,” he said. “I don’t anticipate anything. I’m just going in with an open mind. We’ll just see how it is. There’s no use anticipating anything.”

Bryant injured his side during Friday’s loss in Memphis. If doctors decide to rest him for another day or two, they should expect a fight.

“I feel pretty good,” Bryant said. “It still bothers me a little bit, but not to the point where I feel bad.”

Told O’Neal is doubtful for the game, Laker forward Rick Fox said, “He is? You mean I get [Dikembe] Mutombo? OK.”

Not Mutombo. Allen Iverson. Fox laughed.

“Oh, I get Iverson? I might be doubtful then.”

Without O’Neal, Jackson would have his choice of Samaki Walker, Slava Medvedenko or Mark Madsen at center, and probably would use all three. Since he said Medvedenko was much better suited at power forward, Jackson has not played him nearly as much at center.

TONIGHT

Lakers vs. Philadelphia 5:30 p.m., Ch. 4

Site--Staples Center.

Radio--KLAC-AM (570).

Records--Lakers 19-4, 76ers 11-15.

Record vs. 76ers (2000-01)--1-1.

Update--Iverson has averaged 34.8 points in his last four games and 28.6 since returning from shoulder surgery 19 games ago.