[Orlando, FL] You certainly couldn’t fault the effort by the Orlando Magic in Game 4. The hometown squad was being outplayed by the bigger and more talented Indiana Pacers.

But through sheer desire, guts and determination the Magic came back (quite improbably) from a 19-point deficit to take this one into OT, where they ran out of steam and lost 101-99. They are now down three games to one in this series.

“Every loose ball we were on, (for) every rebound, we boxed out, every defensive possession. I haven’t felt this sense of urgency since the first game,” said Glen “Big Baby” Davis after the game. “With our backs against the wall we fought really, really hard.”

But fighting hard doesn’t win you championships, only the respect of fans, TV announcers and your coach.

Orlando certainly had a chance to win it at the end of regulation. With 14.7 seconds remaining, Magic point guard Jameer Nelson dribbled out the clock and launched a 14-footer that fell short, effectively killing the team’s momentum and giving the Pacers a chance to right the ship in overtime.

More than one person thought that he should have shoveled the rock down low to Davis, who was lighting up the scoreboard all night (he finished with 24 points).

“He could have thrown the ball into Glen in the paint, but once he didn’t do that, I thought he timed everything perfectly,” said Magic Head Coach Stan Van Gundy. It’s a move he makes a lot, that reverse pivot.”

Van Gundy blames fatigue for the missed shot, which would have evened the series at 2-2 and completely changed the dynamic of their situation.

“He just didn’t get his legs under him or he was too tired to get the ball up, but he had separation from the defense; it’s not like the defense was hanging on him,” said Stan.

Magic forward Ryan Anderson – who was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player for 2011-2012  on Friday – still only managed 11 points in yet another underwhelming performance.

Add to that stat the fact that the bench went 3-for-15 and you can see why the pinstripes are struggling to get wins against Indiana. Another disappearing act from earlier in the series – Magic scorer Jason Richardson – finally came alive, netting a team high 25 points to no avail.

Game 5 is on Tuesday back in Indiana.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Image: Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic

[Indianapolis, IN] The somewhat improbable victory for the Dwight Howard-less Orlando Magic in Game 1 was a triumph for the series underdogs. Well, the Indiana Pacers proved why they are the chosen ones in this series in Monday night’s Game 2 match-up.

Indiana Pacers 93, Orlando Magic 78. The series is now tied up 1-1.

The Magic men did hold their own in the first half and the start of the third quarter behind yet another star turn by center Glen “Big Baby” Davis, who pulled down 6 rebounds and kept the home team at bay in the paint. Davis finished the game with 18 points, a team high.

But by the second half, Indiana’s offense started to sizzle (finally) to complement their tough-as-nails defense. In fact, Indiana kept Orlando to 35% shooting from the field for the game, which will not get it done in this series (or any other for that matter).

“We’re going to have to be better offensively,” said Magic Head Coach Stan Van Gundy. “I’m going to have to find something that works.”

Yes, he is. Plus the guys have to shoot better. Orlando’s Jason Richardson went 1-for-5, Jameer Nelson shot 4-for-13 and Davis 5-of-16. Ryan Anderson also continued to struggle, this time it was with fouls – he only stayed on the court for 11 minutes in the second half.

“Obviously we have a lot of scorers on this team and we thought we’d get it going, but we never did,” offered Anderson post-game, as reported by Orlando Magic scribe John Denton. “Their momentum was just greater than ours, they fought harder and they made more hustle plays.”

Orlando’s gritty shooting guard J.J. Redick – who had 12 points in 25 minutes of play – sees the need for a little shake-up of the game plan, as the last one didn’t work too well.

“You have to be happy that you got one (win) on the road, but I don’t think that’s a good frame of mind to be in,” said Redick. “We have to make our adjustments, both Xs and Os and with what we bring to the game on Wednesday night.”

Oh, yes, Wednesday night. The series moves to Orlando for Game 2 on Wednesday and Game 3 on Saturday. Both will be seen as must-win if the pinstripes hope to pull off the upset in this series and face (what looks to be) the Miami Heat in the next round.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Image: Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic

[Indianapolis, IN] Coming into Game 1, the Orlando Magic were the underdogs against the late-season charging Indiana Pacers.

It wasn’t supposed to be like this, but with Orlando’s superstar center Dwight Howard out for the season with a back injury (he just had surgery), the tables have turned the possible contenders into also-rans. It would be up to Glen “Big Baby” Davis to fill Howard’s massive shoes in the middle.

In reality, it was Orlando’s scrappy, never-say-die attitude and aggressive three-point shooting (9-of-24) that proved to be the difference. That and the fact that Indiana couldn’t make their free throws (they shot under 60%, pathetic by pro standards).

Still, the Pacers had a chance to win this one. With the scoreboard reading 80-77 and with 10.3 seconds left on the clock, they called for a timeout. On the inbound play, go-to scorer Danny Granger got the ball and prepared to launch a three. But he was called for traveling.

Traveling? Missing free throws? Pacers legend Larry Bird must be turning over in his grave. Wait. What? He’s still alive?

The good guys ended up winning 81-77.

Possibly the most improbable thing about the victory is that the Orlando Magic’s ace sharpshooter Ryan Anderson only managed four points. If Anderson can break free and get hot in this series, the Magic may actually have a chance in pulling off the upset.

Photo: Orlando Magic

“Even in games we haven’t played well, I think our guys never quit fighting. Our goal is to hang in there,” said Magic Head Coach Stan Van Gundy after the game.

Hanging in there, indeed.

Though he was outsized by Indiana center Roy Hibbert by 5 inches, Davis played a great game, managing 16 points, 13 rebounds and 3 blocks in 40 minutes of play. And all of that on a sore ankle!

“We’re not trying to impress the doubters or make them believe in us. We believe in ourselves. We’ve been through a lot this year, both mentally and physically. And we have been able to overcome it. This is huge to get Game 1 at their place,” said Davis after the game.

Other Magicians stepped up in this game as well, including dribbling puppy dog Earl Clark who battled Indiana’s big men for 19.5 minutes. Clark did well, scoring 6 points, pulling down 9 rebounds and swatting away four shots. Puppy power!

The Orlando Magic lead the first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers 1-0. Game 2 is Monday night.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Images: Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic

[Orlando, FL] The shiny luster of the Amway Center was dulled just a bit as the Orlando Magic – fresh off of the dramatic securitization of center Dwight Howard through the end of next season – were blown out by the Chicago Bulls 85-59.

Yes, 59.

This one was U-G-L-Y. How ugly? Howard was the only player in an “El Magic” uniform to score more than 10 points. And the Bulls were without MVP Derrick Rose in their arsenal.

“Tonight you saw a team playing without their star player and they did what they needed to do to win, and they beat us with no problem,” said Glen “Big Baby” Davis after the home-court drubbing. “I wish they would have had Derrick Rose, in a sense.”

The Bulls credit the win to tough defense, while the Magic credit the loss to 35% shooting from the floor, 20% “shooting” from behind the 3-point line and a pathetic 39% average from the charity stripe.

“They’ve played without the league MVP and they’ve beaten Philly and Miami and blown us out. Give them credit for what they’re doing and what kind of team they have,” offered Orlando Magic Head Coach Stan Van Gundy after the loss, the worst (29 points) since he’s helmed the team.

Up next for the 29-18 Magic: Phoenix on Wednesday and Cleveland on Friday.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Image: Orlando Magic

Related reading:

Bulls win easily… (KTVB) The Chicago Bulls have opened a three-game lead over Miami in the NBA’s Eastern Conference by silencing the Orlando Magic 85-59. Carlos Boozer had 24 points and 13 rebounds as the Bulls won for the fifth time in six games to improve …

Rose-less Bulls zap Magic, 85-59 (Philippine Star) With the reigning MVP out nursing a sore groin for the fourth straight game, Rose’s teammates used a smothering defense and capitalized on a plethora of Orlando Magic turnovers in an 85-59 victory Monday night. Carlos Boozer picked up the scoring slack …

Orlando Magic

One great game, two losses … as we double-dip due to a time-crunched publishing schedule …

[Orlando, FL] Coming off of one the closest, yet best games (as a fan) to watch – an overtime, buzzer-beater victory over the Indiana Pacers – the Miami Heat were ready to storm into Orlando and leave with a win on Tuesday.

A lot of rumors circulated during the day about Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard. The biggest one was that if he was to stay with the Magic, that he could decide the fate of Head Coach Stan Van Gundy and General Manager Otis Smith.

Rumors have actually been going around since early in the year about him wanting out of Orlando, but this one came on the eve of “D-Day” – decision day for the team.

“If anybody thinks I care about that, I really don’t give a damn about being fired,” Van Gundy said. “That doesn’t concern me in the least. … If they want to fire me to please somebody, fire me.”

And with that in mind, we tip off …

In the first quarter, the Magic came out on fire, with Howard scoring 12 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. Glen “Big Baby” Davis also contributed in style, coming off the bench to score 6 points. For the Heat, Dwyane Wade was the man, tallying up 10 points. At the end of one, the Magic were up 30-27.

Photo: Orlando Magic

Dwight Howard – is he headed out the door?

While the Magic controlled the first six minutes, it was the Heat who ended up dominating the second quarter. The Heat went on a 21-4 run to close out the half and took a double-digit lead into the locker room. At the end of two, the Heat were up 56-45.

However, Orlando stormed back after the break behind the play of PG Jameer Nelson, who scored 8 points. Howard didn’t do much in the third quarter, only scoring 3 points. Still, the Magic managed to cut the lead down to 1. After three, the Heat were up 73-72.

The fourth quarter went back and forth, with many lead changes and ties. With under a minute left, the game was tied. But, with 50 seconds left, Nelson hit a three-pointer and put the Magic up 94-91.

But, after many missed three-pointers from the entire Miami Heat team throughout, D-Wade rose to the occasion, stepping back to hit a three-pointer. The Heat ended up with the final possession and a chance to win, and the ball was in Wade’s hands once again.

Wade went to the same spot where he sunk the Pacers the night before, and the ball went in … but came back out. Every Magic fan breathed a sigh of relief. At the end of regulation, the game was tied at 94.

The Miami Heat missed out on many opportunities throughout the overtime period. Consequently, with under a minute left, the Heat were down, 102-98. After a turnover by the Magic, the Heat had a chance for a two-for-one. But, instead LeBron James took an unnecessary three-pointer and the Magic ended up with the ball.

Photo: Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson scored 25 against the Miami Heat

But, Howard missed both of his free throws and the Heat had another two-for-one opportunity with under 26 seconds left. However, on the next possession, Wade missed a three-pointer. The Magic hit a couple more free throws and ended up winning the game 104-98.

Dwight Howard played a great game, scoring 24 points and reeling in a whopping 25 rebounds. Jameer Nelson also had a monster night, scoring 25. Sharpshooter Ryan Anderson also contributed to the big win by scoring 16 points and reeling in 12 rebounds.

Miami Heat Lose To The Chicago Bulls – For The Second Time

[Chicago, IL] Coming off of a tough overtime loss against the Orlando Magic, the Miami Heat were ready to avenge that defeat against the best team in the Eastern Conference, the Chicago Bulls.

Although he was a game-time decision, MVP point guard Derrick Rose sat this one out against the Heat with a groin injury (although the Bulls were just fine without him). For the Heat, sub Mike Miller was still out of commission.

The Bulls started the first quarter with a vengeance. They took an early lead, putting Miami on its heels early. But, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade came back, combining to score 23 points. And, yes, that means Wade and James were the only ones to score for the Heat in the quarter.

Copyright 2012 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

Miami Heat forward LeBron James goes to the basket against Chicago

At the end of quarter number one, the Heat were up 23-19.

The Bulls bounced back in the second by going on a 23-7 run, giving them a big lead. Derrick Rose’s back-up, John Lucas, was in the headlines last time against the Heat because he was dunked on by LeBron. But, on Wednesday night, Lucas made headlines for his play, scoring 8 straight points to increase the lead back to double-digits.

At the end of the first half, the Bulls were up 53-42.

Both teams stayed even throughout the third. It was James who did most of the scoring for Miami (13 points, 2 assists). But the Heat never got a run together and they ended the quarter as they began. At the end of three, the Bulls led 81-70.

Lucas took over for the Bulls in the fourth, scoring 10 points – and that was with a foot-taller LeBron guarding him. Although the Heat tried to rally, it wasn’t enough to beat the talented Chicago Bulls. The final score was Bulls 106, Heat 102.

An all-around team effort from the Bulls with their bench players scoring a whopping 56 points. And super stand-in John Lucas? He scored 24 points and had 3 rebounds.

This was the second straight game the Heat have lost. They just seemed out of it in this one, as they were out-rebounded by 16 and out-hustled throughout the night. Most of the Heat’s scoring came from Dwyane Wade and LeBron James, who combined to score 71 of the team’s 102 points.

“This game was won in the trenches,” Miami Heat Head Coach Erik Spoelstra said. “They absolutely annihilated us on the glass. We need to get into that fight under the glass.”

By: Michael Tristani II/Sunshine Slate

Miami Heat

[Orlando, FL] The month of February has been very good to the Orlando Magic.

Riding a three-game win streak into Wednesday’s game against in-state rivals the Miami Heat, the team is enjoying a somewhat unexpected wave of momentum after a disastrous January.

During the black abyss of January, the team went from top of their division to dwelling near the bottom and reeling from inner conflict and poor play, most likely due to the impending trade doom of franchise player Dwight Howard.

During this stretch, Howard was having none of it.

“I’ve been playing hard every night. Everybody else has to have that same attitude,” said Howard. “If you don’t want to play, just stay in the locker room, because it don’t make sense for a team who we should beat to just demolish us. … I want to win a championship.”

“I work too hard every night for anybody to not want to go out there and play hard,” he said famously.

Well, someone must have listened to what Howard said, because the fire is back, even if it is only a flicker. Or is it?

Photo: NBA/Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard was ready for the Miami Heat

And for the Heat, the pressure has been on that team to win and win big, as they are the chosen ones to go the distance this year. But the lockout-shortened season has thrown a curveball into their plans. With so many games being played in such a short amount of time, the Miami Heat have tired legs.

The team has superstars for sure, but they are aging – not old – but aging, and those legs need a rest. Their recent elongated home stand may have given them a false sense of satisfaction going into tonight’s in-state contest against a suddenly confident Orlando team.

And now that the Magic has resumed its winning ways, a home court test against the mighty Miami Heat is just what the doctor ordered. If they pass the physical, they are officially on the mend. If they fail against their in-state rivals and projected champs, they could be back to doubting their very existence on the basketball planet.

Or something like that.

Orlando certainly had their work cut out for them facing a Heat team averaging 103.2 points of offense per game versus their own, near-pathetic 92.2 ppg. That’s not the stuff of trophy hoisting.

Not to mention the potent scoring of Miami’s Big 3: LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh which average almost 70 points per game combined. In contrast, the Magic’s starting five only manage somewhere in the mid-fifties. But the O-Towners have a better bench.

Seems like a game is in order …

Photo: Orlando Magic

In-state rivals Orlando Magic hosted the Miami Heat

The Orlando Magic started off strong on the boards. They also weren’t afraid to launch threes. Jameer Nelson even attacked the basket to full effect, but that was short-lived as the Heat quickly clamped down on penetration (it would be a long time before Nelson did much of anything in the game).

Nonetheless, the Magic quickly went up 7-0 causing the Heat to call a time-out. Miami responded by going on a 6-0 run.

The building reigned down boos on Miami Heat superstar LeBron James as he stepped to the line for the first time. There were a lot of red jerseys in the crowd, for sure, but they were drowned out by the hometown blue and white.

With 7:21 to go in the first Ryan Anderson already has 7 points and a great hustle play. He really has developed into a complete player. Except for free throws, that is – he missed three in the quarter causing the team to shoot something like 25%.

Meanwhile, Howard was struggling to keep hold of the ball, but cleaned up a lot of shots and was rocking the scoreboard with 8 points with 4:19 to go. But his team’s defense was impressive in keeping the boys from Miami to sub-20 scoring.

Not much was going on for the Heat in the quarter, even though they managed to stay close. Howard and Anderson combined to score 17 of the 26 points scored by Orlando.

At the end of the first quarter the score was Orlando Magic 26, Miami Heat 18.

At the 9:29 mark in the second, the Magic pushed the lead to 36-23 on some championship-caliber play. But you know the Heat can turn it on at any moment. But will they?

Photo: Orlando Magic

Ryan Anderson scorched the Miami Heat

The Magic started draining threes and the couldn’t can’t keep up. At the 6:37 mark, the Magic’s second-teamers started to get sloppy and James & Co. pounced, cutting a 17-point lead to 13. Howard came back in to put a stop to all of that.

Is it just me or is LeBron one of the whiniest players in the league? He expects to get every call.

The Magic cooled somewhat – except for Anderson who is 5 for 6 from outside the 3-point line and has 8 rebounds at this point in the game – and the Heat are sparking. D-Wade is getting it going. And that is an understatement.

The Miami comeback didn’t really begin until around 4 minutes left in the 2Q.  Miami went on a 12-2 run with every point coming from Wade.

Just before halftime the Heat cut the Magic lead to 7. Then 3.

At the half,  the Magic were up 53 to 50. Wade finished the first half with an incredible 22 outmatched only by Anderson’s incredible 24.

A back and forth battle for the first half of the third quarter kept it tight, although Orlando kept a lead. The Heat were expected to make another run and eventually take control. However, everything fell apart for Miami.

At 5:44 it was Orlando 61, Miami 56. Miami looked really tired after last night’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Photo: Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE

Miami Heat superstar LeBron James had an off night in Orlando

Bosh was eerily quiet and Wade cooled considerably. In fact, everyone on the floor was missing shots during this stretch. Who will get it going?

The Magic, apparently. At the 4:07 mark Orlando pushed the lead back to 11. Glen “Big Baby” Davis is simply a monster with his back to the basket.

The Magic were quicker at this point in the game, but would they be able put some distance between them and the Heat? Davis says yes, pouring in his second bucket in muscle-ly fashion. Back-up Magic PG Chris Duhon made a crucial shot-clock three. And just like that, the lead was back to 17.

The Magic ended up outscoring the Heat 24-11 in the third quarter.

The fourth started with the Orlando Magic up big. The Miami Heat tried to pound back but just didn’t seem to have it in them. Miami got within 9 points with about 4 minutes left but the Magic busted the lead wide open, eventually putting the nail in the proverbial coffin.

Final score: Orlando Magic 102, Miami Heat 89.

The home crowd got the victory that they were looking for and there was much jubilation. Even from the celebrities in the building, who were flashed up on the big screen “Celebrity Cam.” First up: Jack Nicholson. Then Bruce Willis. Then Kevin Bacon. Then Jay-Z and Beyonce.

Jack (Lakers) and Jay-Z (Nets) must be in town trying to convince Howard to come play for their teams. Willis actually might have been hiding out from Demi Moore or looking to get Dwight into the next Die Hard flick as a villain (he seems to fill that role nicely these days).

And Bacon? He and his wife lost a sizable chunk of change to Bernie Madoff in his giant Ponzi scheme, so he must have been looking for a loan or a new financial adviser. Or changing everyone-in-the-building’s status in the Kevin Bacon game.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate. Additional reporting by Michael Tristani II/Sunshine Slate

Lead photo: Orlando Magic

Miami Heat

[Orlando, FL] On a night celebrating our men and women serving in the U.S. military, emotions were running a little higher than normal for the fans of the Orlando Magic.

The beautiful Amway Center was certainly rocking – even with the large number of empty seats – in high anticipation of the home team getting their second win in a row after a disastrous 4-game stretch of losses that had everyone scratching their heads (and hiding their replica jerseys).

Tonight, the Cleveland Cavaliers were in town. That mediocre squad has been gaining notice for some pretty good individual play this season, mostly by rookie sensation Kyrie Irving, who is quick, aggressive and a joy to watch.

But the Cavs are still fundamentally unsound and in desperate need of one or two more good players. Sure, they are the second-best rebounding team in the league but that is because they miss so many shots.

Word on the street is that they are jockeying for a good draft lottery position by (sort of) throwing the season. Nonetheless, there was still NBA basketball to be played.

After tip-off, both teams went to the bigs early, possibly hoping to get the other side’s guy in foul trouble. The Cavs feisty center Anderson Varejao ending up picking up a quick whistle, but it didn’t really effect his overall playing time.

As for Magic center Dwight Howard, he managed to go almost the entire game without getting a foul. He also nearly went the distance without earning any free throws until Cleveland broke out the Hack-A-Howard (more on that later).

Photo: Orlando Magic

Dwight Howard’s defense makes the Orlando Magic a top-shelf team

The game itself was pretty unspectacular really, save for some outstanding individual play and a nail-biter ending. Both teams shot miserable percentages in the first half, with the Cavs sinking to somewhere in the neighborhood of 25%, which is downright pathetic for a pro team don’t you think.

For the Orlando Magic, Howard was his usual self, dominating on defense – you know, blocking shots and changing minds. But his offense was, well, off. He kept missing his near-patented baby hook. He must missed four of those at least.

Jason Richardson, back from a two-game rest due to injury, was the star of the show for the home team. J-Rich was looking sharp, throwing down alley-oops and making jumpers. No doubt trying to keep his starting spot with J.J. Redick nipping at his heels (incidentally, Redick was scoreless tonight in 23 minutes of play).

The Magic’s outside sharpshooter Ryan Anderson picked up two quick fouls which sent him to the bench before he could really get going. Unfortunately, that meant more playing time for Earl Clark, who was filling in for Glen “Big Baby” Davis, who was suspended him for two games for his “incident” with head coach Stan Van Gundy earlier in the day.

Wahhhhhhh!

I honestly have no idea why Clark is still in the NBA. His shot looks horrible and his clumsy court manner is frustrating to watch. But there he is in a Magic uniform, throwing up bricks and fouling like he gets paid per infraction.

The Magic did go up early 18-9, but managed to squander that lead and end the first quarter 18-17 on some poor shooting by pretty much the entire team.

Photo: Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic forward Earl Clark

Things got real exciting when the Orlando Magic‘s newest acquisition – point guard Ish Smith – checked into the game. He’s a lively dribbler that crosses up the defense and opens up lanes to the basket. Ish even surprised the other Magic players with a few moves.

Smith is already a fan favorite after only two games and deservedly so.

Stop the presses – Earl Clark got a basket!!! And a defensive stop!!! And he earned a trip to the line!!! All in the span of 40 seconds. He’s on fire!!!

Both teams were still struggling to make shots, but the Magic kept inching northward on the scoreboard as the hapless Cavs settled into their rhythm-less play.
The Magic broke it wide open by going up 19 at the 8:30 mark in the third quarter.

Besides Irving and Antawn Jamison, the Cavs can’t get the ball in that round thing that everybody seemed to be aiming for. Defensively, they are punishingly handsy, getting a lot of second chance ops and tap-aways. But they are simply unable to do anything with the ball when they get it.

Earl Clark goes coast to coast!!! The crowd goes wild!!!

Going into the fourth, the Magic were up by 19 and feeling pretty good about themselves. Earl Clark even grabbed a monster rebound!!! Who is this guy all of a sudden?

With 10:30 left in the game, the score was 74-57 for the Magic. Then the Cavs started making threes, cutting the lead to 12 which made everybody nervous, including Earl Clark who somehow forgot how to play again.

The Cavs cut it to 10 with 3:09 left. Now we have a game. On cue, Varejao started being Varejao and trying to goad Howard into losing his cool. It didn’t work, so the Cavaliers went for the Hack-A-Howard game plan which sent the league’s (probably) worst free throw shooter to the line every time the Magic had possession of the ball.

The lead quickly evaporated to seven. Then five. The anxious crowd was really starting to turn on the superstar center with each missed free throw. Then Howard made two in a row and everything was OK again. That’s how fragile his relationship is with the fans right now.

The Orlando Magic ended up pulling it out at the end 102-94 by sheer will and determination to not end up one for six, instead they get their second victory in a row and the hometown faithful can wear those jerseys with pride once again.

“That’s the game plan,” said Dwight of the Hack-A-Howard strategy. “Until I do better at the line, they’re going to continue to do it. It was a good game plan, coming down the stretch . . . and as long as we got the win, that’s the only thing that matters.”

Notable Cavs stats: Irving had 18 points and six assists, Jamison had 16 and Alonzo Gee poured in 20.

Notable Magic stats: Dwight Howard finished with 19 points, 16 rebounds and 8 blocks. Jason Richardson scored 19, Hedo Turkoglu got 18 and Ryan Anderson dropped in 17. Earl Clark had 8 points.

Next up for the Orlando Magic: at Indiana on Saturday, L.A. Clippers visit on Monday, and Miami hits town on Wednesday.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Images: Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic

[Orlando, FL] It is eerily quiet on the Dwight Howard trading front. And Orlando Magic fans are breathing a sigh of relief after rap mogul Jermaine Dupri’s “breaking news” Howard-to-be-traded-in-48 hours tweet deal deadline came and went without so much as a remix.

The biggest team news over the past couple of days wasn’t the team’s 104-97 victory on Sunday over their hosts the Sacramento Kings or their pathetic showing against the Chicago Bulls the game before that, which caused the coaching staff to re-evaluate the game plan going forward.

The biggest news actually came from the mouth of Magic GM Otis Smith, the least liked person in Orlando. Smith thought it wise to do a backstage interview with the hometown paper. It will probably be his last such interview.

The embattled Smith said nothing that would help his case, even coming across at times as paranoid and delusional.

Let’s see, we learned that his family has been threatened, but he’s not concerned about it enough to call the police or to give specifics (read: internet threats).

Smith also gives the team a so-so rating so far this season, telling the Orlando Sentinel reporter that, “I think there’s times we look good, and there’s times we don’t look so good, probably like three-quarters of the teams in this league right now.”

And what about his track record of incredibly bad trades and the mishandling of superstar Dwight Howard?

“If trying is a sin, then I have sinned a lot, because I’m never going to stop trying,” he told the Sentinel.

If the Magic really want to keep Dwight, this guy has to go try somewhere else. Like this week.

Photo: Lance Turner/latuphoto.com/Sunshine Slate Images

Glen “Big Baby” Davis is a welcome addition to the Orlando Magic

Meanwhile …

The Orlando Magic have amassed a 6-3 record so far this season which, under the circumstances, is pretty good. When they are clicking they remind me of the team that made it to the 2008-2009 NBA Finals. And it should – three out of the five Magic starters were on that squad.

These guys have the experience and seem to be rejuvenated in the hustle department. Almost as if they sense this is their chance to get back to the Finals before D-12 makes his exit and the team is back being the East Coast Clippers (can’t really make that joke anymore, can you?).

Breakout players for the Orlando Magic this year:

Ryan Anderson is averaging 18 points a game. He is having the kind of year that can take you deep into the playoffs (remember Rashard Lewis when he was scoring this much?). He’s also great trade bait, but the Magic would be foolish to lose this three-bombing cat who is playing the best basketball of his life.

The trade with Boston for Glen Davis was a wise move for Otis Smith (he still makes those once in a while). Davis is a true impact player, on the scoreboard (averaging 8.4 points a game this season) and on an emotional level. He is also one helluva backup for Dwight.

Plus everyone just loves his “Big Baby” nickname, except for him of course. Wahhhhh.

J.J. Redick is simply knocking it out of the park this year. He is averaging almost 12 points per game, an almost 4 point improvement over last season. And he is as feisty as ever.

Hedo Turkoglu is back, baby! Last season’s slumping sloth is this season’s victory wizard. His ppg is trending northward and his three-point percentages are also up, way up. Plus, Magic coach Stan Van Gundy‘s plan to use Hedo more as a point forward has a historical success rate (Finals, anyone?).

Photo: Lance Turner/latuphoto.com/Sunshine Slate Images

NBA All-Star 2012 Tip Off: Howard making his entrance (Jan. 4, 2012)

All-Star Game & Balloting Tip Off

On Jan. 4, the Orlando Magic played host to the NBA, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Sprint representatives as well as TV’s Craig Sager (you know, the guy who wears crazy jackets and does sideline interviews on cable) as part of the “2012 NBA All-Star Balloting presented by Sprint” official tip-off event.

The event also served to remind the world that the Amway Center in Orlando will be hosting the NBA All-Star festivities this year – the game is Feb. 26.

On hand from the team: Dwight Howard, Jameer Nelson, Jason Richardson, Hedo Turkoglu as well as CEO Alex Martins and assistant coach Patrick Ewing. There may or may not have been some Magic Dancers as well.

NBA All-Star Balloting presented by Sprint allows fans to select their favorite players as starters for the 2012 NBA All-Star Game by voting on NBA.com and via mobile devices.  The NBA All-Star ballot lists 120 players – 60 each from the Eastern and Western conferences – with 24 guards, 24 forwards, and 12 centers from each conference comprising the list.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Images: Lance Turner/latuphoto.com/Sunshine Slate Images

Orlando Magic

[Orlando, FL] After their embarrassing Christmas Day loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Dwight Howard & Co. were looking to make a home-opening statement Monday night, the second game in a season starting back-to-back.

The Houston Rockets fell victim (104-95) to an Orlando Magic team eager to prove themselves in the face of trade rumors, lackadaisical efforts and post-lockout stress disorder in front of an enthusiastic Amway Center crowd.

Unexpected was the rise of forgotten man Hedo Turkoglu, who’s play was a big disappointment last season. Turk tossed in 23 points and looked like the fan favorite of old.

“Part of it is an energy thing and part of it is a mentality thing,” said Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy. “We need him to do that on a consistent basis.”

Indeed.

The other white-hot player for Orlando on the victorious night was J.J. Redick, who scored 20 and also made a pair of key 3-pointers to keep Houston from closing the gap, reminding fans why they loved him so.

“Across the board for our team, we just played better offensively,” Redick said. “There was more ball movement, more energy. And when that happens it’s a little easier to get into a rhythm. Basically speaking, when you’re in a rhythm you shoot the ball better.”

As for Howard, he was certainly dominant, especially early. Obviously, he wanted to erase the image of Sunday night’s poor performance. He sure did, netting 21 points, seven rebounds and three blocks on the night.

“(Sunday) night was out of my head as soon as the game ended,” offered D-12. “I’m going to have great games and bad games and that was a bad one. I was just trying to stay focused, keep my head up and be ready for [Houston].”

Summing up the win, Glen Davis – you know, Big Baby – showed more of that playful wit to go along with his 13-point, 4-rebound performance against the Rockets.

“It’s huge to be on a winning streak of one. … We have a lot to build on,” the Orlando Magic forward said.

Really starting to like that guy.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Image: Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic

[Orlando, FL] It was a game of halves tonight at the Amway Center as the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat played the second in-state preseason match-up in less than a week.

The Miami Heat were on during the first game in Miami as the better-prepared team cruised to an astonishing 118-85 drubbing of the visitors. Even trade talked Superman could only muster 5 points, in what was described by the big fella as “embarrassing.”

But Orlando was determined to not let that happen again in round two, the gloves were off. But history did repeat itself – at the beginning of the game, anyway – as the Heat continued their dominant ways through the first two quarters, starting off the game in crushing fashion, scoring the first seven points.

The home fans were already starting to think that this one was over.

There were some great individual plays however from the Magic early on by some new faces including Von Wafer, who came over from the Boston Celtics. In the second quarter, he managed an awesome reverse stuff over the Heat’s Terrel Harris, who ended up on his backside and sliding across the floor.

LeBron James looked ultra-confident in the first quarter sinking jumpers and eyeballing the crowd with a knowing glare that said “we got this.” He finished the first half with 19 points and his team headed into the locker room with a 56-42 lead.

But Orlando seemingly came alive as the game went on, fueled by some magnificent plays by Dwight Howard, Jason Richardson (three threes!) and Glen Davis.

Davis – another acquisition from the Celtics – was showing his stuff alright. Big baby poured in 18 points on near-perfect 7 of 8 shooting, leading all Magic scorers on the night. Orlando fans will be praising that trade all season if he keeps putting up those kind of numbers.

Howard was impressive himself, going 6 of 8 for 15 points, a little below his average. His defensive effort certainly made up for the lost points. The one-two punch of Davis and Howard could be devastating this season – that’s a lot of body to get around to make it to the rim.

At the 8:18 mark in the fourth, the Miami Heat had only managed to score 2 points so far. The Big Three seemingly lost their mojo after six spectacular quarters of basketball against the Magic men. Now they were going to have to dig deep.

And they did. The Heat indeed rallied late – but the Magic were able to hold on for a 104-100 victory, buoyed by Jameer Nelson‘s 14 points and Richardson’s 15.

James led all scorers with 27, followed by Dwyane Wade with 21. Chris Bosh had a miserable game, chucking bricks and managing only 7 points out of eight shots. Norris Cole was able to throw in 11 points on 4-9 shooting.

Curiously sitting out the game (DNP-CD) for the Miami Heat, new signees Shane Battier and Eddy Curry. Consequently, the Heat looked a little thin off the bench.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Image: Orlando Magic

Miami Heat

[Orlando, FL] Even though it is only a preseason contest, the Orlando Magic will be looking for a little payback Wednesday night against in-state rivals the Miami Heat.

Unfortunately, the boys will be outmatched yet again, as the Heat squad seems to already be playing great basketball while Orlando is still shaking off the lockout-induced cobwebs. Not to mention Miami went to The NBA Finals last year and sport not one, not two, but three super-talents.

And let’s not forget all of the drama surrounding superstar center Dwight Howard’s seemingly imminent trade. Or more accurately, the fans CAN’T forget it, but we wish they could. And so do the other Magic players, no doubt.

Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy has made mental and physical adjustments to the team, hoping to right the ship before tip-off.

“We worked very hard on just playing a lot harder and running back a lot harder,’’ Van Gundy said. “We’re trying to make extra efforts. It was a long and hard practice and we’re trying to get them to make them push them when they are tired. It was really about our defense and pace.”

The game starts at 7 p.m. at the Amway Center.

Photo: Lance Turner/latuphoto.com/Sunshine Slate Images

Hannah Scott with Magic Dancer Casey Smith

Decking The Halls

Sure, the team lost (badly) to the Miami Heat in its preseason away opener on Sunday, but that didn’t stop the new guys on the Orlando Magic from making some big plays off the court.

On Monday, Magic forwards Glen “Big Baby” Davis and Justin Harper erased the painful memory of a 118-85 shellacking in Miami by visiting dozens of patients at the Walt Disney Pavilion at Florida Hospital for Children.

Former players Nick Anderson and Bo Outlaw – as well as several Orlando Magic Dancers and the team’s loveable mascot Stuff – were also on hand for the community outreach event, which brought smiles all around.

Presents were distributed along with autographs and photo ops for the children and families, in need of a little holiday cheer this time of year. The team was more than happy to assist.

“You have kids that want encouragement, some lifting up, especially during the holidays,” Davis said. “You know you’re impacting someone’s life in a positive way.”

“This is the time of year to give thanks, compassion and love,” he added.

Photo: Lance Turner/latuphoto.com/Sunshine Slate Images

Orlando Magic forward Glen Davis plays Twister with Kenner Norori

Davis even played a game of Twister. He and Outlaw also “sang” holiday tunes during surprise visits to patients’ rooms.

“Christmas is a special holiday. It’s where families get together and enjoy life,” Davis said. “I just want to see all these kids smile. That’s the most important thing.”

Harper, who was drafted last June, was delighted to give back to the community he now calls home.

“I love kids. It’s a positive experience for me and I want all of these kids to know that we care.” Harper said. “It’s the spirit of giving. Putting a smile on their faces is what it’s all about.”

The visit was part of an entire week’s worth of holiday-themed events – dubbed “Deck the Halls” – for a team eager to erase the painful memory of the lockout that shortened the current season from fans’ minds. And, of course, do some holiday-themed good deeds in the community.

Also on tap this week: Today, J.J. Redick and Pepsi took 75 children from the Boys and Girls Club on a shopping spree. During halftime of Wednesday’s preseason home opener against the Miami Heat, the Magic will “surprise a local family with gifts during these difficult economic times.”

On Thursday, Jameer Nelson plays Santa Claus, delivering holiday presents to a “special family” in the community.

Photo: Lance Turner/latuphoto.com/Sunshine Slate Images

Orlando Magic mascot Stuff with Sam Hope

Oh Yeah, The First Game

“It was disappointing and it was embarrassing,” said Dwight Howard, who only managed five points and a half-dozen rebounds in 29 minutes of play. “But we have to stick together … There’s a lot more games to be played and time for us to get better.’’

The loss a bit a surprising in one respect as the team has been nearly unbeatable throughout the pre’s under coach Van Gundy, going 27-3. In fact, they hadn’t lost a preseason game since 2008.

Van Gundy was a little more, well, Van Gundy in his assessment of the glorified scrimmage.

“When you have a team outscore you 22-0 on fast break points they’re clearly playing at a pace and an energy level higher than you. We simply could not keep up,’’ Van Gundy said. “And once we got behind I didn’t think we fought it out to very well. We didn’t compete very well and the defense was bad.’’

Ryan Anderson and J.J. Redick did compete, however, lead the Magic (and all scorers) with 22 points each. It was good to see those two coming out of the gate strong this year – Orlando is going to need their skills.

Orlando’s defense was pretty much non-existent Sunday, as Miami shot 58.7%. Orlando was held to a nearly non-professional 35.4% from the floor thanks to a combination of Heat awesomeness and Magic lethargy. The Heat simply exploded during the second half, blasting past the Magic and scoring 65 points to Orlando’s pathetic 39.

The Magic certainly got a scare as Hedo Turkoglu hit the floor hard while driving to the basket. He was face-down on the floor for several scary minutes. Turkoglu was diagnosed with a contusion on his left hip.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Images: Lance Turner/latuphoto.com/Sunshine Slate Images

Orlando Magic

[Orlando FL] During Monday’s Media Day, Orlando Magic all-star center Dwight Howard changed his tune. Since the lockout ended, Howard’s tone, the words he has spoken and the actions of his agent has been “trade me.”

He even called out Magic GM Otis Smith for being the reason for an impending ugly exit from the only NBA team he has ever played for in seven years.

But on Monday, surrounded by local media, Howard was back to his playful self and indicating that he would like to stay in town if the team was willing to make some changes for the better.

“There’s no place I would rather be but here in Orlando,” Howard said. “And I just want to make sure that we have the right things here so we can win a championship. And I’m all about change. If you’re willing to change and you’re willing to do what it takes to win, then, you know, you’ve got me.”

“You got me?” That’s a far cry from, “trade me, and here’s the list if teams I will play for.”

Yes Orlando, there is hope now that D-12 could stay in an Orlando Magic uniform. Or it could just be part of Howard’s negotiation strategy. The negativity of his exit demands was burning up the social media sites, ruining his rep and downgrading his value. Ruthless business tactics don’t sit well with fans, even though the league is a ruthless business – peep the lockout – run by ruthless businessmen.

But it is supposed to be about basketball and community. That is why it is the Orlando Magic and not the Amway Magic. Hell hath no fury like a community scorned. Somebody told Dwight to play nice – Rich DeVos, his agent, his mom, his inner child – so Dwight smiled for the cameras Monday and at least acted like he wants to stay in Orlando.

Let his agent do his dirty work. That’s what they do.

Besides, Dwight has never played the villain role very well. His very public legal battle with his child’s mother – out of wedlock, mind you – forever destroyed his squeaky clean, super-Christian image. Dwight crushed her in court, but few were cheering that courtroom victory. That episode shaped him as a man, a slap of reality (show)

Howard’s latest trade demands – and how he went about them – rubbed everyone the wrong way, possibly even the teams that were courting him. Well, Dwight righted the ship on Monday. The ball is now squarely in the Magic’s court. What moves will they try to appease the greatest center and most dominant defender in the game?

Never mind that, it’s time to play ball.

Big Baby in a Magic uniform? Who would’ve thunk it?

Jason Richardson Re-Signs With Orlando Magic – Big Baby Officially Inks His Deal – The Reign Of Von Wafer begins (Huh?)

Finally something positive from Orlando Magic GM Otis Smith: Guard-forward Jason Richardson has been re-signed by the team. J-Rich, who was one of the few bright spots in last year’s dizzying trade action, averaged 15.6 ppg., 4.1 rpg., 1.8 apg. and 1.16 stlpg. in 33.9 minpg.

In 80 games of action for both the Phoenix Suns and the Orlando Magic, Richardson shot a fresh contract worthy 39.5% from three-point range.  However, Richardson’s numbers fell off a bit after coming to Orlando – he only averaged 13.9 ppg. for the Magic during the season and 10.0 ppg. in five playoff games.

“Jason (Richardson) is a tremendous competitor who is great in the open floor and can drain the three-point shot,” said Smith. “We are very happy to have him back in a Magic uniform.”

Smith is happy to have anyone back in a Magic uniform. Just kidding Otis, that’s why you get paid the big bucks and I am sitting here drinking instant coffee. Nonetheless, Richardson will have to do better for the team to excel this season.

Orlando Magic fans loved hard-nosed forward Brandon Bass and were most likely upset to see him go in a trade that sent him packing to arch rivals the Boston Celtics. But guess what? We may have gotten the better end of this deal: Glen “Big Baby” Davis.

That’s right. The man who single-handedly bumped the Magic out of the playoffs with his wide-bodied heroics and soft touch as a Celtic is now officially a Magic man. His numbers are better than Bass’s and he has championship pedigree, something Orlando sorely lacks.

David is playing career-best ball at the moment, so this move should work out in Orlando’s favor.

Also coming over in the trade was Von Wafer, a journeyman guard out of Florida State who has played for the Los Angeles Lakers, L.A. Clippers, Denver Nuggets, Portland Trailblazers, Houston Rockets and, of course, Boston. He has good playoff experience and should be an strong go-to guy off the bench.

By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate

Images: Lance Turner/Sunshine Slate Images

Orlando Magic

Further reading:

How Long Can Magic Put Off Dwight Howard Trade Talks? s Adrian Wojnarowski reports that the Orlando Magic have ended trade talks involving Dwight Howard. The Magic hope to have some early season success and convince Howard — who has always maintained that he loves Orlando — that he can compete for …

Sources: Magic done taking Howard trade offers The Orlando Magic have begun informing teams that Dwight Howard is no longer on the trade market, two sources told ESPN.com. The Magic have decided that none of the various offers they’ve received, most notably from the New Jersey Nets and Los Angeles …

Dwight Howard To Stay Put in Orlando According to ESPN.com, Dwight Howard will not be traded and will be playing for the Orlando Magic this season. According to sources the offers from the New Jersey Nets and Los Angeles Lakers were not worth executing and the Magic have taken Howard off …