Nelson nearing return

Reports out of Orlando indicate that All-Star point guard Jameer Nelson may be closer to a return from a torn labrum in his shoulder than previously believed.

``"I'm pretty sure he's going to be given the benefit of the doubt. I expect him to be out there sometime during the series," back-up point guard Anthony Johnson told the Orlando Sentinel.

Nelson scored 55 points in the Magic's two wins over Los Angeles in the regular season, but has been sideline since February with a shoulder injury.

Lakers forward Trevor Ariza, who still keeps in touch with Nelson, said: ``Even being hurt, he's still one of the leaders of that team. I know he wants to play. I've been in the same situation, so I know he's trying to do everything that he can, so that if he's able to come back, he can play.''