Playing with a Big Heart

The reemergence of Jameer Nelson has brought the Orlando Magic back into contention form. Nelson has been hobbled with various injuries over the past two seasons. As an All-Star reserve last year, Nelson gained league recognition as the NBA coaches voted him into a reserve spot. Nelson has since established himself as a solid point guard. His leadership and consistent play will make the Magic a tough team in the upcoming playoffs.

With Rafer Alston at the helm, the Magic were able to reach the NBA Finals. Nelson made an unlikely return but his heroics fell short and the Magic lost to the Lakers in five games. Many questioned the coaching decision to play Nelson in the Finals series. He clearly was not in his best playing form, and many felt it destroyed the team chemistry.

Now that Nelson is playing consistent, the Magic are legitimate contenders. His ability to penetrate off of the screen and roll opens up perimeter shots and easy lobs for Dwight Howard. He also presents a threat as a scorer. Nelson has a solid inside-outside game and his chemistry with Howard has created a spike in the center's offensive production. As the team captain since 2006, Nelson has proven himself as a leader.

Against other Eastern Conference point guards Nelson has held his own. Mo Williams of the Cleveland Cavaliers replaced Nelson in last season’s All-Star game. This season Rajon Rondo of the Boston Celtics earned an All-Star reserve spot. All three guards have led their teams to top records in their respective divisions. Williams is a great shooter but lacks the ability to dribble and drive effectively, Rondo is a fantastic passer and driver, but lacks a consistent shooting touch. Nelson is both able to drive and shoot with ease. His height has made it harder for him to drive, but with Howard in the middle, a lob pass can get a quick bucket.

Nelson has made several big shots in his career including one against the Lakers last season, and a couple against the Cavaliers this past month. The little point guard from Chester, Pennsylvania has a big heart and a fearless mentality. Now coming off of two serious injuries, its safe to say he has made a name for himself and has proven his resiliency. During the postseason Nelson will get a chance to prove the Magic are a different animal when he is healthy and in the driver's seat.