The LA Times reports that Tex Winter, Phil Jackson's assistant through eight NBA championships, probably will retire at the end of the coming season, he said Monday.

"I think this will be my last year," Winter said. "It might do well to make that statement. Phil's wanted me to coach until I'm 80, that's the way he's put it, and I'll be 80 in February."

In other Laker news, Shaquille O'Neal's agent, Leonard Armato, said Monday O'Neal was not on crutches and recuperating well from toe surgery undergone two weeks ago. The Lakers expect O'Neal to be healthy for the start of the regular season, which opens Oct. 30 at Staples Center against Portland.