Gasol out at least two more games

Mar 27, 2008 - 2:20 AM LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- The Los Angeles Lakers will have to wait at least two more games to get center Pau Gasol back, according to a published report on Wednesday.

Citing coach Phil Jackson, the Los Angeles Times reported that the former All-Star center will not play in Wednesday night's game against the Charlotte Bobcats and is doubtful for Friday's contest against the Memphis Grizzlies - his former team.

"It's swelling," Jackson told the newspaper. "Swelling creates soreness. I'm sure he'd like to be back and play (against) Memphis, but I don't know if that's a possibility or not. That's a pretty short order."

The 7-foot Gasol, who was acquired by the Lakers in a blockbuster deal on February 1, has sat out six straight games after injuring his ankle against the New Orleans Hornets on March 14.

Gasol's absence is costly for Los Angeles (49-22), which was one-half game behind the Hornets (49-21) for the top spot in the Western Conference entering Wednesday's play.

The Lakers have turned into a championship favorite thanks to the acquisition of the 27-year-old center, who has averaged 18.9 points and 8.5 rebounds in 58 games with the Lakers and Grizzlies.