Pregame surprises

Luke Walton returned to the starting lineup for the Lakers' game against the Clippers tonight, his first minutes since suffering from pain in the ball of his right foot that sidelined him for two weeks. He scored the opening basket of the game.

Also, backup guard Jordan Farmar said he hopes to practice later this week, perhaps Friday or Saturday, and Coach Phil Jackson said he might play when the Lakers begin a six-game trip next week. Farmar has been out since undergoing left knee surgery Dec. 24.