Gasol to miss last two exhibition games, might sit out opener

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Lakers center-forward Pau Gasol will sit out the last two exhibition games and could miss the season opener next Tuesday, Lakers Coach Phil Jackson said.

Gasol will miss a total of six exhibition games because of a strained right hamstring, giving the Lakers little in the way of frontcourt continuity going into the regular season.

Center Andrew Bynum will also sit out tonight’s exhibition against Denver. Bynum sustained a strained rotator cuff in his right shoulder while going up for a defensive rebound in an exhibition Tuesday against Golden State.

Gasol, an All-Star selection last season, practiced Wednesday but felt soreness in his leg Thursdsay.

Jackson said it ‘could be’ the case that Gasol sits out the opener against the Clippers.

‘Whether he makes it or doesn’t make it, I’m not worried,’ Jackson said. ‘That doesn’t worry me.’

-- Mike Bresnahan