Magic Players Expect Nelson Will Play

ORLANDO -- All-Star point guard Jameer Nelson, who hasn't played since February 2 because of a shoulder injury and resulting surgery, moved another step closer Tuesday to being activated by the Magic for Game 1 of the NBA Finals.

Nelson practiced for the first time in a full-scale workout with his teammates, who all left for Los Angeles believing that he would be playing against the Lakers.

"I expect to see him out there during the series,'' said backup point guard Anthony Johnson, who is most likely to lose playing time to Nelson. "He looked pretty good today. I expect him to contribute when given the opportunity.''

Nelson didn't sound quite as confident after practice, although he is the one who has been pushing team management and coaches for the chance to play again before this season ends.

"I want to play. I'm a competitor. And my teammates sound confident because they want me to play,'' Nelson said. "I can go to the hole and take a hit. And I don't think I'll mess things (chemistry) up. But I won't have the final say.''

Until two weeks ago, the Magic had no intention of using Nelson again this season because his rehab was expected to take six months. They were more concerned with having him ready for training camp in the fall. But Nelson's persistence, and his quicker-than-expected recovery, changed the outlook. Because they reached the Finals without him, they are worried about changing the playing rotation.

"I'm not 100 percent sure, but I think coach will use him,'' said forward Rashard Lewis. "I don't know for how long he can play, but he can help us win.''

Magic coach Stan Van Gundy still sounded skeptical about Nelson helping his team in the Finals. He said Tuesday if Nelson is used, it would be in a backup role, and that Rafer Alston will remain the starter.

Van Gundy said that he would not make a decision about activating him until after seeing Nelson again in practice Wednesday in Los Angeles.

Nelson, who was having his finest NBA season before the injury, scored 27 and 28 points in two victories against the Lakers during the regular season. He sustained a torn labrum in his right shoulder in a game against Dallas.

"He was okay out there today,'' said Van Gundy, who didn't provide the vote of confidence that Nelson wanted. "I have to see him again before I can make any decision.''