Magic coach Stan Van Gundy was happy with the play of point guard Jameer Nelson, who hadn't taken the floor in four months.

Nelson played 23 minutes in Orlando's blowout loss to Los Angeles in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Thursday night, posting 6 points and 4 assists.

"[Nelson] played well in the second quarter," Van Gundy said. "I was happy. I thought he was getting in the paint on his pick and rolls. He had four assists. I thought he was making really good plays. And in the second half I didn't think he was very good at all."

Nelson was just 3-for-9 from the field, and may not have seen as much time if the Magic had been in the game in the fourth quarter.

"I thought [Nelson] had an effect on the ballgame," said Lakers coach Phil Jackson. "I think he came in, he was effective in penetration and finding guys. It looked like he was back in the format of what he wanted to get accomplished. Obviously, his shooting wasn't quite there, although he hit a couple of shots. But we anticipate he will be out there more."