Mbenga signed; Mihm still hurting

February 11th, 2008, 3:06 pm · Post a Comment · posted by KEVIN DING, OCREGISTER.COM

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — DJ Mbenga got his full Lakers contract for the rest of the season, and he’s already making NBA Finals plans.

Mbenga said he’s eager to get back to the championship round to make up for Dallas’ 2006 loss to Miami (Mbenga had seven appearances for Dallas, playing minimally, in that postseason). He is extremely high on the Lakers and was glad to get signed for the rest of the run.

The reason the Lakers locked up Mbenga, 27, was because of uncertainty regarding Chris Mihm’s health. Mihm, who didn’t have tremendous results from his recent shockwave treatment, no longer is expected to be ready to play right after the All-Star break. He is still dealing with pain in his right ankle.

The Lakers’ other centers are all battling health issues right now that could continue to be problematic, too: Andrew Bynum (knee), Pau Gasol (back) and Ronny Turiaf (toe). Lakers coach Phil Jackson said signing Mbenga, whose second 10-day contract expired Sunday, is no reflection on Bynum’s recovery right now.

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