Rick

Fox

Fox, who is due just over $5 million this season, is expected to retire.

Fox’s foot and ankle will be immobilized for six weeks. It’s possible that he’ll be ready for training camp, but it’s more likely that he will miss the start of next season.

Fox will probably remain on the injured list until December or January.

The Lakers don’t expect Fox to play until December or January.

There’s no official timetable for Fox’s return from foot surgery, but it could happen during the second half of December.

When Fox returns, he will have to fit into a small forward rotation which includes Devean George and Bryon Russell. George has meshed well with the Lakers’ four Hall of Fame starters, and his shooting percentage is fifth-best in the league. But coach Phil Jackson allowed for the fact that Fox might be better-suited to start, considering his age and physical condition.

Fox has been out all season after foot surgery. He could return by late December. Devean George has played well in his absence.

Fox has been on the IL since having foot surgery in May. His work the last two weeks has been very encouraging.

Fox was included on the Lakers’ playoff roster despite a dislocated thumb. Horace Grant (hip injury) and Jamal Sampson (foot injury) were left off.

Fox is in the final stages of recovery from May foot surgery and could be healthy enough to return at the end of December.