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.