David Lee was only able to play about a minute in his inspirational return to the court in Game 6 against the Denver Nuggets, but he may be able to play a more significant role in the second round against the San Antonio Spurs, according to Carl Steward of the Contra Costa Times.
David Lee injury: Warriors big man may play more ‘meaningful’ role vs. Spurs
Warriors power forward David Lee could take on a bigger role in the second round against the Spurs.
Warriors coach Mark Jackson said it was "possible" Lee could play more against the Spurs, even if it was just for a few minutes at a time.
“It depends on how he’s feeling and what the doctors and training staff and everybody else says about it,” Jackson said. “But he’s excited about it, and if he’s healthy, and he can give us something, I will certainly utilize those minutes properly.”
Lee tore his right hip flexor in Game 1 against the Nuggets and was initially ruled out for the rest of the playoffs, but he made a surprise return to the court on Thursday. He took one shot and grabbed one rebound in 69 seconds of play in the first quarter before returning to the bench for the rest of the game.
Afterward, Lee said he returned because he wanted to be a leader and provide an extra lift in the crucial Game 6. He also said there was little extra risk to returning, as there’s already a good chance he will need surgery after the season.
How effective Lee could be against the Spurs remains to be seen, but if he's physically able to play, he will. Golden State could certainly use all the help they can get against San Antonio, who easily brushed aside the Lakers in the first round.
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