Starting a five-game Western trip against Shaquille O'Neal and the Los Angeles Lakers is like a heavyweight fighter beginning his career against Mike Tyson, like a lefty getting his first major-league at-bat against Randy Johnson.

Anticipation could turn to discouragement rather quickly. There is no fun in getting waxed.

But then again, the Orlando Magic still have intentions of coming back to Los Angeles in June for the NBA Finals.

"I know the Lakers are [supposed to be] unbeatable, but they aren't going 82-0. I can guarantee that," Magic Coach Doc Rivers said after practice Saturday. "They are going to lose 10 or 15 games, so why can't two of those be to us? I think we have a very good chance against them."

While the two-time defending champion Lakers (5-0) are a budding dynasty, the Magic (3-3) will begin this trip looking like a team in a blender, whirling around in hurry-up mode. They are trying to short-cut the rebuilding process, hoping to become instant contenders by adding some intriguing ingredients, such as free agents Horace Grant and Patrick Ewing.