The sexual-assault case against Kobe Bryant threatens to cloud the Lakers' entire season, and Shaquille O'Neal concedes the ugly affair could present an ongoing distraction.

"To some people," O'Neal said. "But not to me."

The media crush that already envelopes the Lakers after every game and practice could double in size. At every stop, in every city, there will be dozens of new faces, wanting to ask the same old questions -- if nothing else, how Bryant and the Lakers are coping with the strain.

Team officials are contemplating ground rules for reporters in an attempt to shield Bryant and his teammates. O'Neal has his own solution.

"I'm going to make it clear that I'm not answering (questions) about it," he said. "I'm not going to speculate about it. And I'm not going to try to step in his shoes and think what he's thinking.

"I'm going to make it clear: Don't ask me about it. But is it going to be a distraction? I'm sure it is. Because guys are going to ask, Do you think this? Do you think that? But I'm not going to answer it. I will not answer it. And I will not speculate."

While team officials expect Bryant will play this season, they have received no direct assurance yet. Assuming he does play, Bryant could be summoned away to deal with legal matters and, of course, for the eventual trial in Colorado.

"We'll be all right," O'Neal said. "Because we got two more hungry, upset veterans (Gary Payton and Karl Malone). We'll be fine. It's going to be a fun year."