Although negotiations have not yet begun, Phil Jackson's agent, Todd Musburger, said Friday Jackson remains intent on extending his Lakers contract. A new deal, expected to add two seasons to the one remaining for Jackson as Lakers coach, could be done before the coming NBA regular season.

Musburger was in Los Angeles on Thursday night to visit Jackson, who has spent most of the summer recharging at his Montana home. Coming off a season that included a kidney stone and an angioplasty, Jackson expected a summer of relaxation and exercise would affirm his desire to extend his Lakers contract - and it has.

"He's feeling really good," Musburger said. "He has had a really productive summer, health-wise. He's feeling just terrific."

Although he hasn't broached the contract issue with the Lakers at any point this summer, Musburger has huddled with Jackson about it.

"We've studied it," Musburger said.

They know the Lakers would like to extend Jackson's contract. Lakers owner Jerry Buss is due back from his summer vacation in Europe next week, though Musburger said "for the next couple weeks, nothing is scheduled."

The Lakers begin training camp in Honolulu on Sept. 30 for players with three or fewer seasons of NBA experience. Regardless of whether Jackson's deal is extended by then, Musburger suggested it will be at some point: "If it takes a little more time, fine."