Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson isn’t likely to play tonight in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the L.A. Lakers, but he is expected to be activated and sat out, the Sentinel has learned. The chance of him playing in the series is still remote.
Nelson has been feverishly trying to come back early from Feb. 19 shoulder surgery. The Magic have been evaluating his progress the last few days, and it appeared he might be a long shot to play after returning to practice this week.
Nelson was two months ahead of his projected six-month rehab schedule and had increased the intensity of his workouts the past three weeks, he did not participate in his first formal practice with the Magic until last Tuesday in Orlando. He also worked out with the team in L.A. on Wednesday.
