(AP) Now that it's time to get started, Coach Phil Jackson of the Los Angeles Lakers is cutting Shaquille O'Neal some slack.

Admittedly not in the best shape of his career after surgery on his left little toe two months ago, and even worse than usual from the foul line this month, O'Neal said recently he's entering the new season at about 80-percent efficiency.

The other NBA centers should be so fortunate.

"I think I play better (hurt) anyway," said O'Neal, who still figures to play at least 35 minutes tonight when the two-time defending NBA champions open the season against the revamped Portland Trail Blazers. "You have to suck it up more, think about what's at hand."

Jackson was on O'Neal pretty good last week about his free-throw shooting, even giving him a hard time at the Lakers' annual Tip-Off Luncheon.

The afternoon after calling O'Neal's foul shooting "scary," the coach told the audience: "He's been in a bad mood ever since that toe operation. But first of all, people would like to know about your health. And, finally, Laker fans would like to know could you relieve some of the anxiety from us by (making) your free throws."

After the laughter subsided, O'Neal said: "I've been here for a long time. I haven't let the city down yet, and I promise I won't let you down in the future, going on No. 3. I'll hit them when I have to hit them."

O'Neal made 18 of 51 free throws (35.3 percent) in the exhibition season.

Jackson has since backed off, and said over the weekend he's feeling much better about O'Neal's present condition.