The Lakers could get Matt Barnes back in early March following knee surgery, but the outlook for Theo Ratliff isn't nearly as bright.

Ratliff has been sidelined since having cartilage removed from his left knee Nov. 17.

The big man, who was originally only supposed to miss four-to-six weeks, recently got another opinion on his knee, putting him so far behind schedule that Lakers coach Phil Jackson said he has to be monitored just to see "if he's going to play at all" the rest of this season.

For Barnes, the hope is that he can practice some with the team Monday, when it reconvenes after the All-Star break.