El Segundo, Calif. ? Shaquille O’Neal expects to return to the Los Angeles Lakers’ lineup tonight against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Sidelined three games because of a sore left knee and right big toe, O’Neal said following a light workout Thursday he plans on playing against the Blazers.

“We’re hopeful that he’ll play,” team spokesman John Black said.

Black said forward/center Samaki Walker is doubtful because of a sprained right ankle. Walker was injured Wednesday night on the opening tip in the Lakers’ 93-87 victory at Utah.