Shaquille O'Neal won't play before his injured knee is examined by doctors in Miami. The Heat ruled the center out of last night's game against the Pacers, and spokesman Tim Donovan said O'Neal would fly home with the team and have an MRI exam today.
His status for the Heat's home game on Saturday against the Magic has not been determined.
• SMITH TRADE?: The Bobcats placed G Steve Smith on the injured list as he contemplates a trade that would send him to the Heat.
The Heat has expressed interest in Smith, but Coach Bernie Bickerstaff has said Smith has the right to refuse any deals.
• LOPEZ OUT: Jazz G Raul Lopez was placed on the injured list Wednesday and could miss the rest of the season with a left knee injury.
Lopez was forced to the bench during a loss last week to the Lakers because of irritation in the knee.
-- From News Services
