Jammed finger won't stop MJ from jamming

Q. Isiah Thomas mentioned a lump on a finger on Michael Jordan'sshooting hand Sunday. What's up?Tony S.

A. The fickle finger of fate left Jordan with a jammed middlefinger. He has played with worse injuries and not only survived, butthrived. It's a handy explanation for poor shooting, but Jordangives a thumbs-down to excuses.

Q. Do you think there's a conspiracy in the NBA?Bob K.A. Conspiracy, as in seeing that certain teams win? So theBulls can reach the NBA Finals? What do you think this is, the WorldWrestling Federation? Close, but no Red Auerbach cigar. It may seemthat way, though.A high-ranking NBA official asked Sunday afternoon how theLakers-Blazers game was going."You don't have the script?" a member of Team Sun-Timesanswered."Not for the first-round games," the official said with a smile."I leave those back at the hotel."He was joking.But referees have whistles - and calls - to blow. It happens,sometimes at the most curious times. But a conspiracy would involvethe integrity of the game - not to mention the chance of gettingcaught.Direct your questions (even during the game) to Elliott Harrisvia e-mail at sports@suntimes.com, voice mail at (312) 321-2983 orregular mail at 401 N. Wabash, Chicago, IL 60611.