Pregame (11/16) notes

Some notes and quotes from Phil Jackson’s pregame media session…

— As expected, Ronny Turiaf will not play tonight, because of his sprained ankle. Coach Phil Jackson said Sunday’s game is “a possibility” if Turiaf shows some improvement by tomorrow.

— Kobe Bryant was limited to 19 and 18 points, respectively, in last season’s games against the Pistons. Jackson called Tayshaun Prince “a really good matchup for Kobe” because of Prince’s long arms and range.

— Jackson also took note of Bryant’s defense this season, particularly with blocked shots, but said Bryant has to be careful not to try to be a one-man gang tonight on defense. “He’s taking it upon himself to be a one-man defensive show. He can’t do that tonight. He has to take care of (Richard) Hamilton.”

— Jackson said of the Lakers’ periodic troubles on defense this season, “Some nights are pretty good. The speed, sometimes, at point guard gives us problems.”

For live game stories, at the end of every quarter tonight, check out www.dailynews.com/sports.