foxsports
LOS ANGELES, Calif. (AP) -- Forward Pau Gasol is sitting out the Los Angeles Lakers' season opener to rest his strained right hamstring.
Gasol missed the defending champions' final six preseason games with the injury. Lamar Odom took his spot in the starting lineup against the Clippers on Tuesday night, and DJ Mbenga took his place on the active roster.
The Spaniard still was on hand at Staples Center to receive his championship ring in a pregame ceremony.
Coach Phil Jackson is hopeful Gasol will return Friday night against Dallas.
Gasol averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists last season while starting 81 games.
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