All-Star point guard Jameer Nelson returned to the Orlando Magic for Game 1 of the NBA finals, playing the entire second quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night.
Nelson started the quarter, his first action in four months, and provided a quick spark. He assisted on Marcin Gortats dunk for Orlandos first basket of the period, then fed Rashard Lewis for a 3-pointer. Nelson then knocked down a jumper and set up Courtney Lees layup, giving the Magic a 33-28 lead.
Nelson scored four points on 2-of-4 shooting and added four assists.
The Magic activated Nelson earlier in the day and coach Stan Van Gundy said he would be the backup behind Rafer Alston, who the Magic acquired in February shortly after Nelson went down with what was expected to be a season-ending shoulder injury.
But Nelson has been working out with the team for weeks and began taking part in fullcourt drills during the Eastern Conference finals.
Van Gundy said he easiest decision would have been to keep Nelson on the sideline to avoid messing with the chemistry of the Eastern Conference champions, but felt his point guard had been making progress every day and it was worth the risk to play him.
In the end we just think hes ready to go, Van Gundy said before the game.
Nelson tore the labrum in his right shoulder on Feb. 2 and had surgery 17 days later. He was expected to be off the court until August, but recovered quickly and has regained his range of motion. The Magic believe the biggest issue to be his stamina.
Van Gundy said he wasnt sure how much Nelson would play, but would not have him on a short leash, adding were going to stick with him even if Nelson struggles during Game 1.
Nelson averaged 27.5 points in Orlandos two wins over the Lakers during the regular season.
