As if the Lakers needed another good player, here comes Devean George - figuring himself out in his third NBA season and showing that the Scottie Pippen comparison might be valid.

"I've been able to produce and do good things when I'm out there, and (Lakers coach Phil Jackson) is getting a little confident with me," George was quoted as saying in the Orange County Register. "I feel that I deserve the time I've been getting."

No one is prouder of the early returns than Bryant, who pledged in October to make George his season-long project.

George tied his career-high with 29 minutes Sunday night and did a stellar defensive job on Orlando Magic star Tracy McGrady. George scored 10 points and played the entire fourth quarter.

"I thought (Jackson) was going to go with Rick at the end, but it felt good when he left me out there," George said. "When he leaves me out there, that just gives me more confidence."

George said he is more relaxed since his contract situation has been finalized. The Lakers, facing an Oct. 31 deadline to pick up the 2002-03 option year on George's contract, declined - not surprising given George's unproven status.