"Rook" Returns in Style

They are too young, too inexperienced, and too immature. That’s not a fact, let me add, but a general consensus among sports enthusiasts. I mean, really? When do first-year pros perform like they have played on the biggest stage time and time again? Courtney Lee must be an exception to popular opinion, however. The rookie sensation, who had missed the last three games with a sinus fracture, demonstrated why not all diaper dandies are meant to be water boys, lay-up line outcasts or bench cheerleaders. Lee, who wore a protective mask on Friday, registered 11 points, brilliantly helped defend one of the slickest point guards in the league and provided an energy boost off the bench during the Orlando Magic’s 117-96 Game 3 triumph over the defending champion Boston Celtics at Amway Arena to take a 2-1 series advantage. “When you come back from injury, you can’t try to press the issue, said Lee, who added four rebounds, three assists and a steal. “You have to let the game come to you and I feel I did that well.” After the former Western Kentucky standout went down in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Philadelphia 76ers, many assumed his next game would be at the start of next season. But Lee had other plans. He knew his return, which came the same night Rafer Alston was suspended, would give the Magic a key component they clearly didn’t have in Game 2. After J.J. Redick picked up two quick fouls in the first quarter, Lee entered via a standing ovation from the sold out crowd and shot 3-of-4 from the field, 4-for-4 from the free throw line while contributing to Rajon Rondo’s relatively poor night. Unlike Richard Hamilton, who has become notorious for always wearing a facemask following breaking his nose three times during the 2003-04 season, Lee does not expect to wear one for long. He was not irritated by the texture of the mask, however, and was very impressed by how it was manufactured. “Rook” is pleased, meanwhile, with his progression throughout this season and playoffs. “It was definitely my goal from day one to get better throughout the year,” Lee said. I’m happy where I am, but I am not content. There are areas to get better in.” Head coach Stan Van Gundy will decide whether to stay with Redick in the starting lineup or come back with Lee for Game 4, which is set for Sunday at 8 p.m. ET in Orlando.