MAGIC RETURNS - FOR PRACTICE\Another comeback? Former Laker says he's just 'having fun'.

Byline: Marc Stein Daily News Staff Writer

Almost an hour of Wednesday's practice had passed when Magic Johnson bounded through the gym door.

Ownership must have its privileges. He walked right into some fullcourt five-on-five, and the fine for showing up late was withheld.

"Just having fun," Johnson explained in the lighthearted tone used throughout the Lakers' organization in an attempt to downplay the sight of No. 32 back on the hardwood.

"Just the owner trying to get a good workout and do what he can to help the team."

For now, that means Johnson attends practice - or half of practice - when his schedule permits.

The second-year vice president and part-owner plans to dress for today's session as well, hoping to advance the first notable momentum of the season for the Lakers.

Johnson understands that his mere presence on the practice floor will make fans think that a full-fledged return is next - and he refuses to rule that out - but stressed that the annual suggestion of a Johnson reappearance didn't come from him this time.

"It was other people saying that I'm going to come back," Johnson said, referring to a report Monday night on Prime Sports. "Let's get the record straight on the situation, because everyone is attacking me.

"I'm enjoying practicing with the guys. I'm enjoying seeing the attitude they have taken. Right now, I'm just practicing, having fun. If (a comeback) happens, I'm sure you'll all know."

Johnson had said last week that he wouldn't join Lakers workouts, in part because "the team was down" after a Jan. 2 loss to Philadelphia and also for some of the same philosophical differences with players that pushed him out of coaching after the 1993-94 season.

Because Johnson has been critical of those players, in the past and this year, Lakers coach Del Harris polled a few team members before letting the 36-year-old onto the court for the first time Sunday.

"I haven't heard one negative response," Harris said. "And I didn't anticipate one. There's Earvin the coach, Earvin the owner and Earvin the player. I think that when they see him as Earvin the player, it's a whole different deal.

"It's a whole different deal than when he comes in wearing a suit. Most of these guys never thought they'd have a chance to play with Magic. Just to get the opportunity to practice with him is something special."

Co-captain Nick Van Exel dismissed concerns about Johnson's opinionated nature.

"Some guys might mind it," Van Exel said. "Some guys might not mind. It doesn't bother me. I just want to win. If he can come back and help our team win, I'm all for it."

Johnson said: "I'm glad the coach is letting me do it, and I'm glad the guys have allowed me to practice with them. As long as everyone keeps enjoying it, I'll keep doing it.

"I am having a lot of fun. You can see the smile on my face."

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