After suffering what was then labeled as a season-ending injury (and surgery) back in February, Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson is reportedly attempting to return to the court in the 2009 NBA Finals.  The return would come about 2 months prematurely according to doctors and others familiar w/ the injury Nelson suffered.  Nelson was selected to the 08-09′ All-Star Game, you might remember (over a certain Cleveland PG), but was unable to participate.

While I personally think that Nelson’s return is a bad idea, I thought I’d list out some of the Pros & Cons of his return (if the Magic allow it at all).

Pros of Jameer Nelson Playing

• Nelson led the Magic in scoring in both victories against the Lakers this season.  He’s obviously a match-up problem for the Lakers front-court, so he would be an asset.
• He may provide a boost of morale at just the right time.
• He helps propel the Magic to their first NBA Championship.

Cons of Jameer Nelson Playing

• The Magic have been rolling along well since beating Boston in Game 7. Adding Nelson to the rotation could disrupt the on-court chemistry and flow that the other players have developed.
• Jameer could still be prone to injury and cause further damage to himself and the team if re-injured.
• NBA players take several weeks, if not months, to get into full basketball playing shape.  Despite Nelson’s recent workouts, it is doubtful that he could contribute more than a few minutes per game.
• Shooting touch comes w/ much repetition and on-court practice.  I expect Nelson to be flat on his shot and struggle if he returns.
• Could not playing Nelson anger superstar & franchise player Dwight Howard?  Is that even a concern at this stage?
• He blows their chance of winning an NBA Championship.
• Offense is one thing, Defense is another.   How would Nelson’s shoulder respond to the demands of the NBA – running through screens, being posted up, etc. ?

What’s your opinion?  Leave a comment.

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