Mike LapperGs knee injury does not seem to be as severe as the original diagnosis, which projected that the Columbus Crew defender could be out for the 2002 season. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) test last Friday indicated an MCL (medial collateral ligaments) sprain rather than ACL and MCL tears. The veteran defender is now expected to be sidelined for 6-8 weeks. Lapper, 31, was hurt when he went in for a hard slide tackle in an exhibition match vs. the Kansas City Wizards in Bradenton, Fla. Lapper has appeared in 106 games for Columbus since joining team prior in 1997.