Ariza talks about the 2009 Finals: Nelson enters rotation & Magic needs to adapt, which gives the Lakers an advantage

Basketball 9:56am, 26 June 2025 104

Recently, former NBA player Ariza talked about the 2009 Finals on the "New Rory and Mal".

Ariza said: "Nelson was an All-Star that year, but he was injured. After Alstom entered the starting lineup, the Magic found the rhythm. But Nelson was an All-Star and a starter. He allowed the team to be what they are today, but when the team plays well, it is difficult for the coach to adjust the lineup. The team still needs to adapt, and they don't have time to train, so that's also an advantage for us."

In the 2009 Finals, the Lakers beat the Magic 4-1. Nelson averaged 18 minutes per game, scoring 3.8 points, 1.4 rebounds and 2.8 assists.