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Orlando Magic

Conference: Eastern


Division: Southeast


In the News


Howard leads Magic to third straight win (AP)

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy calls a play in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis, Saturday Feb. 4, 2012. Orlando won 85-81.

Dwight Howard had 27 points and eight rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to an 85-81 win over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night. Danny Granger had 19 points and seven rebounds and Tyler Hansbrough had 17 points and seven rebounds for the Pacers, who have lost two of three to the Magic in less than two weeks.




Howard powers Magic to win over Pacers
Dwight Howard had 27 points and eight rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to an 85-81 win over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night.

Howard leads short-handed Magic by Cavs (AP)
Dwight Howard scored 19 points, had 16 rebounds and blocked eight shots as the Orlando Magic outlasted the Cleveland Cavaliers 102-94 on Friday night. Jason Richardson also added 19 points in his first action in two games after resting a sore knee. Hedo Turkoglu added 18 points and Ryan Anderson chipped in 17.

Howard controls paint as Magic fight off Cavs
Dwight Howard scored 19 points, had 16 rebounds and blocked eight shots as the Orlando Magic outlasted the Cleveland Cavaliers 102-94 on Friday night.

Magic F Davis suspended 2 games for incident
Orlando forward Glen Davis has been suspended for two games by the Magic for conduct detrimental to the team.

Magic ban Davis for detrimental conduct (AP)
Orlando forward Glen Davis has been suspended for two games by the Magic for conduct detrimental to the team. Davis will miss Friday's home game against Cleveland and Saturday's game at Indiana. Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy acknowledged before Friday night's game that some sort of verbal incident took place during the team's walkthrough Friday morning, but denied anything physical...

Heat, L.A. teams fill All-Star starting rosters
The NBA named the starters for the 2012 All-Star Game in Orlando on Thursday.

Magic, short at guard, sign free agent Smith
The Orlando Magic have signed Ish Smith, a free agent point guard most recently of Golden State, as the team's third point guard.

With Nelson out, Magic sign PG Ish Smith (AP)
The Orlando Magic have signed Ish Smith, a free agent point guard most recently of Golden State, as the team's third point guard. The 6-foot, 170-pound Smith was added to the roster Thursday, a day after Orlando released guard Larry Hughes. The Magic were in need of a guard with starter Jameer Nelson still out with concussion symptoms.

Howard, Anderson help Magic snap losing skid
Ryan Anderson scored 23 points, including six 3-pointers, to help the Orlando Magic snap a four-game losing streak with a 109-103 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night.

Magic beat Wizards to snap 4-game slide (AP)
Ryan Anderson scored 23 points, including six 3-pointers, to help the Orlando Magic snap a four-game losing streak with a 109-103 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night. Dwight Howard and J.J. Redick added 21 points each for Orlando, which beat Washington for the eighth straight time. It was the Magic's first 100-point game since a win at Indiana on Jan.

Howard says he's open to playing for Bulls
Dwight Howard says he is open to playing for the Bulls.

Surprising 76ers defeat stumbling Magic (AP)

Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doug Collins instructs his team against the Orlando Magic in the second half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, in Philadelphia. The 76ers won 74-69.

Andre Iguodala had 14 points and 11 rebounds to lead the surprising Philadelphia 76ers to their third straight win, 74-69 over the Orlando Magic on Monday night. The Sixers raced to their best start in nearly a decade by taking advantage of a soft schedule for the first third of the season, but it gets tough from here.




76ers send stumbling Magic to 4th straight loss
Andre Iguodala had 14 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to their third straight win, 74-69 over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Magic stumble to fourth straight loss
Andre Iguodala had 14 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to their third straight win, 74-69 over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Pacers send Magic to third straight loss (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard , left, and guard J.J. Redick sit on the bench during the final seconds of an NBA basketball game against the Indiana Pacers in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012. The Pacers won 106-85.

Danny Granger scored 24 points, and David West and George Hill each had 16 as the Indiana Pacers ran past the Orlando Magic 106-85 on Sunday night. The Pacers snapped a six-game losing streak to the Magic and avoided losing consecutive games for the first time this season. Indiana had a 16-2 edge in second-chance points and got 42 points from its bench.




Granger, Pacers send Magic to 3rd straight loss
Danny Granger scored 24 points, and David West and George Hill each had 16 as the Indiana Pacers ran past the Orlando Magic 106-85 on Sunday night.

Pacers hand Magic 3rd consecutive loss
Danny Granger scored 24 points, and David West and George Hill each had 16 as the Indiana Pacers ran past the Orlando Magic 106-85 on Sunday night.

Magic's Howard calls out team after blowout loss
Dwight Howard's future with the Orlando Magic is uncertain, but he's unhappy with his teammates in the present.

Hornets end skid at 9, rip reeling Magic (AP)

New Orleans Hornets ' Jason Smith (14) fouls Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) in the second half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Friday, Jan. 27, 2012. The Hornets defeated the Magic 93-67.

Carl Landry scored 17 points and the New Orleans Hornets snapped a nine-game losing streak with a 93-67 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night. Marco Belinelli added 15 points and Jason Smith 14 for New Orleans, which won for only the fourth time this season against 15 losses. Jarrett Jack added 11 points and nine assists.




Magic F Anderson (sore calf) out vs. Hornets
Orlando starting forward Ryan Anderson is sitting out Friday night's game in New Orleans because of a sore left calf.

Hornets tell C Kaman to stay home (AP)
Hornets spokesman Dennis Rogers says the club has made an "organizational decision" to excuse center Chris Kaman from Friday night's game against the Orlando Magic. Kaman was acquired in a multiplayer trade that sent Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Clippers shortly before the regular season began, and the 7-foot center has struggled to find a consistent role in New Orleans.

Sore calf sidelines Magic F Anderson (AP)
Orlando starting forward Ryan Anderson is sitting out Friday night's game in New Orleans because of a sore left calf. Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says Anderson was kicked in the calf during Thursday night's loss to the Boston Celtics and remained sore a day later. Van Gundy says the team hopes Anderson will be ready for Sunday's game against Indiana.

Magic lose second bad game in two nights
Carl Landry scored 17 points and the New Orleans Hornets snapped a nine-game losing streak with a 93-67 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night.

Celtics rally from 27 down to stun Magic (AP)

Boston Celtics ' Kevin Garnett reacts during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic , Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012, in Orlando, Fla. The Celtics won 91-83.

Paul Pierce had 24 points and 10 assists, and E'Twaun Moore added 16 points to help the Boston Celtics erase a 27-point deficit and beat the Orlando Magic for the second time this week, 91-83 on Thursday night. Pierce and Moore had 10 points each in the fourth quarter. Dwight Howard led the Magic with 16 points and 16 rebounds.




Celtics erase 27-point deficit to shock Magic
Paul Pierce had 24 points and 10 assists, and E'Twaun Moore added 16 points to help the Boston Celtics erase a 27-point deficit and beat the Orlando Magic for the second time this week, 91-83 on Thursday night.

Celtics rally from 27 down at Magic
Paul Pierce had 24 points and 10 assists, and E'Twaun Moore added 16 points to help the Boston Celtics erase a 27-point deficit and beat the Orlando Magic for the second time this week, 91-83 on Thursday night.

Magic bounce back in big way at Indiana
What hangover? Only headache is the one Orlando gives Pacers in their first home loss.

Howard becomes Magic's all-time leading scorer
Ryan Anderson had 24 points and eight rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 102-83 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night.

Howard becomes Magic's all-time scorer (AP)
Ryan Anderson had 24 points and eight rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 102-83 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night. Dwight Howard had 14 points and nine rebounds and became the Magic's all-time leading scorer. He came in needing just eight points to break the record. Howard picked up his third foul early in the second quarter and sat for most of the first half.

Howard Magic's all-time leading scorer
Ryan Anderson had 24 points and eight rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 102-83 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night.

Magic fall 87-56 to depleted Celtics (AP)

Boston Celtics small forward Sasha Pavlovic (11) looks to pass as he is trapped by Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game in Boston, Monday, Jan. 23, 2012.

Paul Pierce and former Magic forward Brandon Bass each scored 19 points to carry the injury-riddled Boston Celtics to an 87-56 win over the Orlando Magic on Monday night. The Magic set franchise lows for points and field goals (16). Boston was minus starters Ray Allen, Rajon Rondo and three bench players, drastically reducing its roster.




Celtics hold Magic to franchise low for points
Paul Pierce and former Magic forward Brandon Bass each scored 19 points to carry the injury-riddled Boston Celtics to an 87-56 win over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Celtics without Allen, Rondo, 3 reserves (AP)
The Boston Celtics were without starters Ray Allen, Rajon Rondo and three bench players, severely depleting their roster for Monday night's game against the Orlando Magic. Boston coach Doc Rivers delivered the news about an hour before the game. Allen jammed his left ankle in the second quarter of Sunday's win at Washington and didn't return.

Allen, Rondo among five Celtics out vs. Magic
Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo are among five Celtics out for Monday's game against the Magic.

Injured-plagued Celtics blow out Magic
Paul Pierce and former Magic forward Brandon Bass each scored 19 points to carry the injury-riddled Boston Celtics to an 87-56 win over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Bynum, Howard reply to Shaq's big man ranks
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard is a three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and a five-time All-Star, but that wasn't enough for Shaquille O'Neal to call him the best big man in the game.

Bosh's 30 lift Heat to 6-0 without Wade (AP)

MIAMI, FL - JANUARY 21: Elton Brand #42 of the Philadelphia 76ers is guarded by Joel Anthony #50 of the Miami Heat during a game  at American Airlines Arena on January 21, 2012 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Chris Bosh and LeBron James are allowing Dwyane Wade to simply focus on recovery. Bosh scored 30 points, James added 28 points and nine rebounds and the Miami Heat remained unbeaten without Wade in the lineup this season, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 113-92 on Saturday night. Mario Chalmers scored 11 for Miami, which outrebounded Philadelphia 52-31 and moved into a tie with Orlando for first in...




Howard's big night powers Magic past Lakers
Dwight Howard scored 21 points and grabbed 23 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic survived a tough shooting performance for a 92-80 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night.

Howard's 21 and 23 get Magic past Lakers (AP)

Los Angeles Lakers ' Kobe Bryant (24) speaks with official Kane Fitzgerald during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic on Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, in Orlando, Fla. Orlando won 92-80.

Dwight Howard scored 21 points and grabbed 23 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic survived a tough shooting performance for a 92-80 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night. Jameer Nelson added 17 points and nine assists, and J.J. Redick had 15 points as Orlando had all five starters in double figures.




Howard: No thoughts of potential trade
Magic center Dwight Howard may get a glimpse of his future team when Orlando hosts the Los Angeles Lakers. However, Magic general manager Otis Smith says he's in no hurry to move his star by the trade deadline.

Howard leads Magic past Lakers
Dwight Howard scored 21 points and grabbed 23 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic survived a tough shooting performance for a 92-80 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night.

Lakers face tough back-to-back in Florida
What awaits Lakers in Miami, Orlando?

Spurs best Magic in OT to end road skid (AP)

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy directs his layers during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the San Antonio Spurs , Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012, in Orlando, Fla. San Antonio won in overtime, 85-83.

Tony Parker scored 25 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter and overtime, and San Antonio held on to beat Orlando 85-83 Wednesday night. Tim Duncan added 17 points and 10 rebounds as the Spurs also snapped a streak of 10 consecutive road losses overall, dating to last season. The Magic were led by Dwight Howard with 24 points and 25 rebounds.




Spurs hold off Magic in OT for first road win
Tony Parker scored 25 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter and overtime, and San Antonio held on to beat Orlando 85-83 in overtime Wednesday night.

Spurs end Magic's five-game win streak
Tony Parker scored 25 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter and overtime, and San Antonio held on to beat Orlando 85-83 in overtime Wednesday night.

Howard has 25 and 17 as Magic win 5 straight
Dwight Howard had 25 points and 17 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic past the Charlotte Bobcats 96-89 Tuesday night for their fifth straight win.

Howard's 25 and 17 help Magic win again (AP)

Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy shouts to his players during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Charlotte Bobcats , Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012, in Orlando, Fla.

Dwight Howard had 25 points and 17 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic past the Charlotte Bobcats 96-89 Tuesday night for their fifth straight win. Jameer Nelson scored 17 points, Hedo Turkoglu had 15 and Von Wafer 13 as the Magic won for the 10th time in 12 games. Gerald Henderson had 22 points for Charlotte, which has lost eight of its last nine.




Howard fuels surging Magic
Dwight Howard had 25 points and 17 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic past the Charlotte Bobcats 96-89 Tuesday night for their fifth straight win.

Banged-up Melo back in Knicks starting five
Carmelo Anthony has been cleared to play and will start Monday against Orlando after testing his sprained left ankle and being evaluated by trainers.

Report: Howard adds Clippers to trade wish list
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has added the surging Los Angeles Clippers to his trade wish list, according to a report on SheridanHoops.com.

Carmelo says ankle good, but wrist bothersome
Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony said that his sprained right ankle felt good during Monday's game against Orlando.

Anderson's 7 3s lift Magic past Knicks (AP)

New York Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni, left, argues with a referee during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic in New York, Monday, Jan. 16, 2012. The Magic beat the Knicks 102-93.

Ryan Anderson scored a career-high 30 points, extending his NBA lead with seven 3-pointers, and the Orlando Magic beat the New York Knicks 102-93 on Monday to complete a perfect four-game road trip. Taking advantage of extra space as the Knicks focused on Dwight Howard, Anderson went 7 of 13 behind the arc and is now 40 of 93 for the season.




Anderson's 30 lifts Magic past Knicks
Ryan Anderson scored a career-high 30 points, extending his NBA lead with seven 3-pointers, and the Orlando Magic beat the New York Knicks 102-93 on Monday to complete a perfect four-game road trip.

Howard breaks FT mark in 40-20 game
Dwight Howard broke Wilt Chamberlain's nearly 50-year-old NBA record for most free throw attempts in a game, making 21 of 39 in the Orlando Magic's 117-109 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night.

Howard shoots record 39 FTs in Magic win (AP)

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy instructs his team against the Golden State Warriors during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Oakland, Calif., Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012.

With Dwight Howard getting fouled in record-setting fashion, Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy finally just sat back in his chair and stopped barking out orders. He walked into the huddle during a timeout early in the first half Thursday night, and his assistants started bombarding him with the usual play-calling suggestions.




Howard attempts record 39 FTs in Magic win
Dwight Howard broke Wilt Chamberlain's nearly 50-year-old NBA record for most free throw attempts in a game, making 21 of 39 in the Orlando Magic's 117-109 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night.

Howard, Magic hand Trail Blazers 1st home loss
Dwight Howard had 13 points and 13 rebounds and the Orlando Magic survived a late rally to hand the Portland Trail Blazers their first loss at home, 107-104 on Wednesday night.

Howard leads fan vote for All-Star Game
Magic center Dwight Howard is leading all comers in fan voting for the NBA All-Star Game in Orlando next month, the league announced Thursday.

Magic hand Trail Blazers first home loss (AP)

Portland Trail Blazers head coach Nate McMillan shouts to his team in the fourth quarter during an NBA basketball game with the Orlando Magic Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, in Portland, Ore. The Magic defeated the Trail Blazers 107-104.

Portland's pick and roll nearly undid the Magic. Orlando led by 23 points against the Trail Blazers on Wednesday night, but allowed Portland to close to within three points in the final minutes. The reason? Portland figured out how to work the pick and roll around Dwight Howard. "Yeah, we saw something," Blazers guard Jamal Crawford said.




Magic upend Kings despite Howard's foul trouble
Jason Richardson scored a season-high 22 points, Glen Davis added a season-best 20 and the Orlando Magic beat the Sacramento Kings 104-97 on Sunday despite playing much of the game without foul-plagued Dwight Howard.

Magic get little from Howard, beat Kings (AP)

Orlando Magic forward Ryan Anderson , left, and Sacramento Kings center J.J. Hickson battle for the ball during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game in Sacramento, Calif., Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012.  The Magic won 104-97..

Jason Richardson scored a season-high 22 points, Glen Davis added a season-best 20 and the Orlando Magic beat the Sacramento Kings 104-97 on Sunday despite playing much of the game without foul-plagued Dwight Howard. The All-Star center had five points and four rebounds in 20 minutes and spent most of the first three quarters in foul trouble.




Bulls hold off late Magic run to win 6th straight
Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls held off a fourth-quarter surge by Orlando to beat the Magic 97-83 on Friday night for their sixth straight victory.

Bulls' Rose (elbow) to face Magic; Hamilton iffy
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose, who fell on his left elbow Wednesday, will play Friday night against the Orlando Magic.

Boozer talks on Bulls' win over Magic
Carlos Boozer talks with Sun Sports after Chicago's 97-83 win over Orlando.

Bulls win sixth straight, hold off Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) goes after a rebound against Chicago Bulls ' Joakim Noah , right, during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. 6, 2012, in Orlando, Fla.

Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls held off a fourth-quarter surge by Orlando to beat the Magic 97-83 on Friday night for their sixth straight victory. Carlos Boozer added 20 points for Chicago, which led by as many as 17 before the lead was trimmed to three. The Bulls closed the game on a 17-6 run.




Bulls hold off Magic for win
Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls held off a fourth-quarter surge by Orlando to beat the Magic 97-83 on Friday night for their sixth straight victory.

Players-only meeting for winless Wizards (AP)
Maurice Evans says the winless Washington Wizards have a sense of entitlement like he's never seen before. The veteran called a players'-only meeting Thursday to address leadership issues on the only NBA team without a victory. The Wizards are 0-6 for the first time in franchise history and weren't competitive in an 18-point loss to the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night.

Big Baby will adjust after Van Gundy's criticism
When the Orlando Magic traded for Glen "Big Baby" Davis they were looking to not only help out center Dwight Howard but acquire a player from a winning culture in Boston.

Magic's Davis says he'll try to adjust (AP)
Magic forward Glen Davis says he'll keep working to adjust his game to fit into a more defensive and rebounding role the coaching staff wants him to fill. Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy was critical of Davis' shot selection in the Magic's win over Washington on Wednesday night. He spoke with Davis in more detail at practice Thursday.

Magic roll to victory as Wizards put up little fight
Dwight Howard had 28 points and 20 rebounds, Ryan Anderson added 23 points and 15 rebounds and the Orlando Magic ran past the winless Washington Wizards 103-85 on Wednesday night.

Magic send Wizards to first 0-6 start (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) takes a shot under the basket in front of Washington Wizards ' JaVale McGee , left, and Nick Young during the first half of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, in Orlando, Fla.

Dwight Howard had 28 points and 20 rebounds, Ryan Anderson added 23 points and 15 rebounds and the Orlando Magic ran past the winless Washington Wizards 103-85 on Wednesday night. The Magic won for the fifth time in six games and had four players in double figures. Orlando has won seven straight against Washington and 15 of the last 18 meetings.




Pistons clamp down on Magic 89-78 (AP)
Ben Gordon scored 26 points, and the Detroit Pistons overcame some early foul trouble in an impressive defensive effort against Dwight Howard and Orlando, beating the Magic 89-78 on Monday night. Rodney Stuckey and Tayshaun Prince scored 14 points apiece for the Pistons, who have won two in a row after losing their first three games of the season.

Raptors hold off Stoudemire-less Knicks (AP)
Andrea Bargnani and DeMar DeRozan each scored 21 points, and the Toronto Raptors held onto a big lead this time, beating the New York Knicks 90-85 on Monday night. Jose Calderon added nine points and 12 assists for the Raptors, who blew a 16-point lead Sunday in Orlando before losing 102-96. They opened a 17-point advantage at halftime in this one thanks to the Knicks' inept second quarter then...

Anderson keys Magic's late rally past Raptors
Ryan Anderson scored 24 points and led a fourth-quarter rally that sent the Orlando Magic past the Toronto Raptors 102-96 on Sunday night.

Anderson sparks Magic rally in 4th (AP)

Orlando Magic forward Hedo Turkoglu , of Turkey, shoots around Toronto Raptors forward Amir Johnson , right, and Leandro Barbosa during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in Orlando, Fla. Orlando won 102-96.

Ryan Anderson scored 24 points and led a fourth-quarter rally that sent the Orlando Magic past the Toronto Raptors 102-96 on Sunday night. The Magic trailed by as many as 16 points, but went on a 16-0 run in the final period. Orlando shot 4-for-5 on 3-pointers during the burst, with Anderson making two of them, as the Magic took a 94-88 lead with 3:05 left.




Magic rally from 16 down in fourth for W
Ryan Anderson scored 24 points and led a fourth-quarter rally that sent the Orlando Magic past the Toronto Raptors 102-96 on Sunday night.

Howard, Anderson power Magic past Bobcats
Dwight Howard had 20 points and 24 rebounds, Ryan Anderson scored 23 points, and the Orlando Magic beat the Charlotte Bobcats 100-79 on Friday night for their third straight victory.

Howard has 24 rebounds as Magic roll (AP)

Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy, left, reacts to a call by referee Violet Palmer, right, during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Charlotte Bobcats in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. The Magic won 100-79.

Dwight Howard had 20 points and 24 rebounds, Ryan Anderson scored 23 points, and the Orlando Magic beat the Charlotte Bobcats 100-79 on Friday night for their third straight victory. Orlando jumped to an 11-0 lead and never trailed, eventually leading 56-43 at halftime and building the lead up to as many as 21 in the second half.




Howard Super as Magic top Bobcats
Dwight Howard had 20 points and 24 rebounds, Ryan Anderson scored 23 points, and the Orlando Magic beat the Charlotte Bobcats 100-79 on Friday night for their third straight victory.

Howard has 24 rebounds in Magic win
Dwight Howard scored 16 points, grabbed 24 rebounds and blocked three shots and the Orlando Magic defeated the New Jersey Nets 94-78 in front of a sellout crowd of 18,954.

Howard's 16 points, 24 boards power Orlando
Ryan Anderson scored 22 points, Dwight Howard had 16 points and 24 rebounds and the Orlando Magic cruised to a 94-78 win over the New Jersey Nets on Thursday night.

Howard has 24 boards, Magic roll by Nets (AP)

Orlando Magic forward Ryan Anderson , left, puts up a shot in front of New Jersey Nets ' Anthony Morrow (22) and Mehmet Okur , right, of Turkey, during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. The Magic won 94-78.

Ryan Anderson scored 22 points, Dwight Howard had 16 points and 24 rebounds and the Orlando Magic cruised to a 94-78 win over the New Jersey Nets on Thursday night. Jason Richardson added 16 points for the Magic -- including 15 in the first half -- and J.J. Redick scored 15 points off the bench. It was the 49th career 20-rebound game for Howard, who neared his career high of 26 rebounds.




Postgame: Magic defeat Rockets
Dwight Howard discusses Orlando Magic's 104-95 victory over Houston Rockets.

Howard, Magic return home, hold off Rockets
Hedo Turkoglu scored 23 points to lead five Magic players in double figures as Orlando earned its first victory of the season with a 104-95 win over Houston on Monday night.

Turkoglu's 23 help Magic down Rockets (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) gets off a shot between Houston Rockets ' Luis Scola , left, of Argentina, and Houston Rockets' Samuel Dalembert (21), of Haiti, during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Dec. 26, 2011, in Orlando, Fla.

Hedo Turkoglu scored 23 points to lead five Magic players in double figures as Orlando earned its first victory of the season with a 104-95 win over Houston on Monday night. Orlando got 13 points from Turkoglu and eight points from J.J. Redick in the fourth quarter to help the Magic stave off a handful of second-half charges by the Rockets.




Turkoglu leads balanced attack for Magic
Hedo Turkoglu scored 23 points to lead five Magic players in double figures as Orlando earned its first victory of the season with a 104-95 win over Houston on Monday night.

Durant pours in 30 as Thunder send away Magic
Kevin Durant scored 30 points to help the Oklahoma City Thunder win their season opener with a 97-89 victory over the Orlando Magic on Sunday night.

Thunder top Magic behind Durant's 30 (AP)

Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Scott Brooks reacts during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game against Orlando Magic in Oklahoma City, Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011.  The Thunder won 97-89.

Kevin Durant scored 30 points to help the Oklahoma City Thunder win their season opener with a 97-89 victory over the Orlando Magic on Sunday night. Durant led the league in scoring the past two seasons, including averaging 27.7 last season. On Sunday, he was 11-of-19 from the field and added five rebounds and six assists.




Gametrax: Magic-Thunder
Howard, Orlando face Durant, Oklahoma City.

Down 14 at half, Magic rally to top Heat (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 21:  LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat looks on during a preseason game against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center on December 21, 2011 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Glen Davis had 18 points, Dwight Howard and Jason Richardson each added 15 and the Orlando Magic overcame a 14-point halftime deficit to beat the Miami Heat 104-100 on Wednesday night in the preseason finale for both teams. Davis had a 13-point third quarter to help ignite the comeback and Orlando got a late lift from its reserves to secure the win, including strong fourth-quarter efforts by...




Davis, Magic rally past Heat in preseason finale
Glen Davis had 18 points, Dwight Howard and Jason Richardson each added 15 and the Orlando Magic overcame a 14-point halftime deficit to beat the Miami Heat 104-100 on Wednesday night in the preseason finale for both teams.

Heat squander big lead to Magic
Glen Davis had 18 points, Dwight Howard and Jason Richardson each added 15 and the Orlando Magic overcame a 14-point halftime deficit to beat the Miami Heat 104-100 on Wednesday night in the preseason finale for both teams.

Heat end Magic's 22-game preseason run (AP)

Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra calls out a play during the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game against the Orlando Magic , Sunday, Dec. 18, 2011, in Miami. The Heat beat the Magic 118-85.

Once the Miami Heat started running away from the Orlando Magic, they simply did not stop. LeBron James scored 19 points, roster hopeful Terrel Harris added 16 and the Heat outscored the Magic by 29 points over the game's final 27 minutes, cruising to a 118-85 win in the preseason opener for both teams.




Heat torch Magic in preseason opener
Once the Miami Heat started running away from the Orlando Magic, they simply did not stop.

Heat hand Magic first preseason loss since 2008
LeBron James scored 19 points and the Miami Heat got their preseason off to an easy start, running away to beat the Orlando Magic 118-85 on Sunday night.

Lakers' Bynum not bothered by trade rumors
Andrew Bynum is realistic. He knows that if the Los Angeles Lakers finally end up piecing together a trade with the Orlando Magic for Dwight Howard, it's tough to argue against the move.

Magic's Howard feels love from fans
The Orlando Magic open preseason play Sunday in Miami, but their fan base is already trying to show Dwight Howard how much they don't want him to leave town.

Fans cheer Howard at Magic practice (AP)
It's another week before the Orlando Magic officially open regular-season play. That doesn't mean that Magic fans are waiting around to show their top star how much they want him to stay in town. In his first on-court appearance in front of fans since making a trade request, Howard was greeted to a loud ovation from about 9,000 fans when he was introduced during a free, open scrimmage the...

Fans show support for Howard at Magic practice
It's another week before the Orlando Magic officially open regular-season play.

Magic's Howard says trade request still stands
Magic center Dwight Howard has made it a point to avoid social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook as talk continued to swirl this week about his request to be traded to another team.

Sources: Nets in serious talks to get Howard
The New Jersey Nets have entered into serious talks with the Orlando Magic on a multi-team trade scenario that would bring Dwight Howard to the Nets, according to sources close to the process.

Sources: Nets in serious talks to get Howard
The New Jersey Nets have entered into serious talks with the Orlando Magic on a multi-team trade scenario that would that bring Dwight Howard to the Nets, according to sources close to the process.

Report: Magic end Howard trade talks
The Orlando Magic ended trade talks with the New Jersey Nets and other teams on superstar center Dwight Howard and plan to start the season with him in the lineup, Yahoo! Sports reported Wednesday.

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.

Source: Howard's wish list limited to 4 teams
There are only four teams that Dwight Howard would sign a long-term contract with, according to a source close to the situation -- the Magic, Nets, the Mavericks or the Lakers -- severely limiting the trade possibilities for Orlando.

Sources: Howard's wish list limited to 4 teams
There are only four teams that Dwight Howard would sign a long-term contract with, according to a source close to the situation -- the Magic, Nets, the Mavericks or the Lakers -- severely limiting the trade possibilities for Orlando.

Magic press on amid Howard saga (AP)
The ongoing saga about whether Magic center Dwight Howard's days in Orlando are numbered isn't going away anytime soon. In the meantime, his teammates are preparing themselves to play an NBA season, with or without him. Howard didn't address the media after Tuesday's practice, but one of the Magic's new additions -- former Boston forward Glen Davis -- did have some parting shots...

Howard, GM haven't talked since request
Whether the Orlando Magic and Dwight Howard wind up parting ways remains to be seen, and Howard said Sunday that he is experiencing a new silence with Magic general manager Otis Smith.

Magic, Celts finish Bass for Davis swap (AP)
The Boston Celtics have finalized a trade that brings them Orlando Magic forward Brandon Bass for forward Glen Davis and guard Von Wafer. The deal became official on Monday. Bass' agent, Tony Dutt, said last Friday it was being completed. That night, after the Celtics' first practice since NBA lockout ended, coach Doc Rivers said he hoped Bass could practice with the team soon.

Howard rethinking demand for trade from Magic
After meeting with the Orlando Magic's new CEO and talking to new teammate Glen Davis, Dwight Howard seemed to re-open the door to staying with the team.

Howard: I don't want to miss my chance
Dwight Howard broke his silence to confirm he has asked for a trade from the Orlando Magic as the Chicago Bulls reportedly geared up to enter the race for the prized 6-foot-11 center.

Howard eyes trade due to poor rapport with GM
Dwight Howard's trade demand from the Orlando Magic is due in part to the organization not granting his requests for specific trades and signings over the last several years, the All-Star center said Sunday night.

Howard talks trade request, 'love' for Orlando
When Magic star Dwight Howard signed a contract extension in 2007, he joked that he and Mickey Mouse would be in Orlando forever.

Sources: Arenas clears waivers, now free agent
NBA teams were notified after 6 p.m. Sunday that Gilbert Arenas, released by the Orlando Magic on Friday through the league's amnesty clause, has cleared waivers, according to NBA front-office sources.

D-Will calls Stern a 'bully,' talks about Howard
New Jersey Nets point guard Deron Williams called NBA commissioner David Stern a "bully," and said it made him "smile" when he heard Magic center Dwight Howard had requested a trade to play with him in New Jersey.

Source: Bulls hope to be in Howard trade talks
The Bulls hope to discuss a trade for Magic center Dwight Howard.

Magic GM OK'd agent, not Howard, to speak to Nets
Dan Fegan, the agent for Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard, dismissed reports that his client had illegal contact with the New Jersey Nets, saying that Howard asked for and received permission to explore potential trades.

Magic GM says Howard formally requested trade
Dwight Howard wants out of Orlando, putting one of the NBA's most dominant big men on the block at the start of training camp.

Report: Magic re-sign Richardson to 4-year deal
Jason Richardson agreed to a four-year, $25 million deal to remain in Orlando, according to a report on Yahoo! Sports citing league sources.

Report: Magic's Howard requests trade
A person familiar with the situation says Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has formally requested a trade.

Magic GM OK'd Howard's agent to speak to Nets
Dan Fegan, the agent for Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard, dismissed reports that his client had illegal contact with the New Jersey Nets, saying that Howard asked for and received permission to explore potential trades.

Magic invoke amnesty clause, waive Arenas
The NBA is back in business, and Gilbert Arenas is one of the first players on the move.

Magic CEO: No tampering charges filed
Magic chief executive officer Alex Martins says that Orlando has not filed tampering charges against any other team for any illegal contact with star Dwight Howard.

Magic use amnesty clause to waive Arenas (AP)
The Magic have announced they are using a new Collective Bargaining Agreement amnesty provision to release guard Gilbert Arenas. Orlando posted the move on its website Friday. The new amnesty provision allows a team a one-time option to waive a player's remaining contract from the salary cap and luxury tax.

Agent: Celts deal Big Baby to Magic for Bass
The Boston Celtics have agreed to a sign-and-trade deal that will send free agent forward Glen Davis to the Orlando Magic in exchange for forward Brandon Bass, according Bass' agent.

Sources: Howard to ask Magic for trade to Nets
The New Jersey Nets have been told by Dwight Howard's representatives that they are his preferred destination and that the Orlando Magic superstar is preparing to ask the Magic to trade him to the Nets, according to sources close to the situation.

Retiring Magic CEO denies drunk-dialing Howard
Retiring Magic chairman and chief executive officer Bob Vander Weide says he wasn't intoxicated when he spoke to Orlando's Dwight Howard during a late-night phone call earlier this week and that it hasn't affected their professional relationship in any wa

Report: Vander Weide retiring as Magic's CEO
A person familiar with the decision says Bob Vander Weide is retiring as Orlando Magic chief executive officer and team president Alex Martins is being promoted to his position.

Magic CEO Vander Weide stepping down (AP)
A person familiar with the decision says Bob Vander Weide is retiring as Orlando Magic chief executive officer and team president Alex Martins is being promoted to his position. The person spoke to The Associated Press Tuesday on condition of anonymity because the Magic have not announced the moves. The team has scheduled a Wednesday press conference.

Report: Magic CEO Weide stepping down
A person familiar with the decision says Bob Vander Weide is retiring as Orlando Magic chief executive officer and team president Alex Martins is being promoted to his position.

Report: CEO called Howard after drinking
Orlando Magic CEO Bob Vander Weide has resigned after nearly 20 years with the NBA club, multiple outlets reported Tuesday.

Report: CEO called Howard after drinking
Orlando Magic CEO Bob Vander Weide has resigned after nearly 20 years with the NBA club, multiple outlets reported Tuesday.

Magic-Thunder, Clips-Warriors added for X-mas
Oklahoma City will host Orlando before Blake Griffin and the Los Angeles Clippers visit Golden State on Christmas night, running the NBA's planned opening-day schedule to five games.

NBA adds 2 games to opening-day slate
Oklahoma City will host Orlando before Blake Griffin and the Los Angeles Clippers visit Golden State on Christmas night, running the NBA's planned opening-day schedule to five games.

Magic know Howard's future a hot topic (AP)
Magic forward Brandon Bass didn't know what to expect when he drove up to the entrance gate at the Amway Center on Thursday. "I passed by here a few times and wondering can I go in, but no I can't," he said. "I'm just glad to be back." Thursday marked the first day Orlando Magic players and others around the NBA were allowed to enter team facilities since a tentative...

Nets GM denies Howard trade rumors
New Jersey Nets general manager Billy King vehemently denied rumors Wednesday that he was in trade discussions with the Orlando Magic regarding All-Star center Dwight Howard.

Sources: Nets prep big offer for Magic's Howard
The New Jersey Nets are prepared to offer a trade package featuring Brook Lopez and two future first-round picks to acquire Dwight Howard before the Orlando Magic center becomes a free agent in July 2012, according to sources close to the situation.

Howard, at charity game, blocks labor questions
Whether there will be NBA basketball played this season remains to be seen.

Magic's Howard hosts exhibition game (AP)
Whether there will be NBA basketball played this season remains to be seen. But in the meantime, Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard gave Orlando fans something to watch Sunday night with an exhibition game featuring current and former Magic stars. Howard deflected all questions about the current NBA labor dispute and ongoing intrigue about whether he will seek free agency in the summer of 2012.

Stay or go? Magic's Howard says he's conflicted
It's the biggest question about the biggest guy in Orlando: Will Dwight Howard re-sign with the Magic, or continue his quest for an NBA title elsewhere?

Howard sounds ready to leave Orlando
Dwight Howard discusses his basketball future in a magazine interview. It doesn't sound good for Orlando.

Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard planks with 100 fans in China
Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard planks with 100 fans in China

Knicks add Woodson as assistant (AP)
The New York Knicks have hired former Atlanta Hawks coach Mike Woodson as an assistant to Mike D'Antoni. Woodson led the Hawks to three playoff berths in his six seasons in Atlanta, but was let go after they were swept in embarrassing fashion by Orlando in the 2010 Eastern Conference semifinals. He was a candidate for the Detroit job that instead went to Lawrence Frank, so now will try to help...

Arenas loses 'Basketbal Wives' bid
A California federal court judge on Wednesday ruled against Orlando Magic guard Gilbert Arenas' request to block his former fiancee from appearing on reality program "Basketball Wives LA" and mentioning his name.

Arenas loses 'Basketball Wives' bid
A California federal court judge on Wednesday ruled against Orlando Magic guard Gilbert Arenas' request to block his former fiancee from appearing on reality program "Basketball Wives LA" and mentioning his name.

Howard strongly considering playing overseas
Dwight Howard's frustration with the NBA lockout has caused the Orlando Magic star to strongly consider playing overseas.

Magic's Howard considering China, Europe (AP)
Dwight Howard's frustration with the NBA lockout has caused the Orlando Magic star to strongly consider playing overseas. In an exclusive interview Sunday with The Associated Press, Howard said he would consider playing in China or Europe if the NBA lockout doesn't end. Howard, a five-time All-Star who led Orlando to the NBA finals in 2009, stopped short of saying he's in contract...

Howard frustrated by NBA lockout
Dwight Howard's frustration with the NBA lockout has caused the Orlando Magic star to strongly consider playing overseas.

Lakers' Brown hires Kuester as assistant (AP)
The Los Angeles Lakers have hired John Kuester as an assistant under new coach Mike Brown, reuniting the duo who worked in Cleveland together. Kuester spent the last two seasons as coach of the Detroit Pistons before being fired June 5. Previously, he spent 14 years as an NBA assistant, working in Boston, Philadelphia, Detroit, New Jersey, Orlando and Cleveland, where he worked under Brown.

Suns' Pietrus exercises player option (AP)
Phoenix Suns swingman Mickael Pietrus exercised the one-year player option on his contract Tuesday. Phoenix acquired Pietrus on Dec. 18 in a six-player trade with the Orlando that brought Vince Carter, Marcin Gortat, a first-round draft pick in this week's NBA draft and cash considerations from the Magic in exchange for Jason Richardson, Hedo Turkoglu and Earl Clark.

Video: Dwight Howard does All Blacks dance
Orlando big man Dwight Howard certainly moves like he is ready for one.

Arenas fined by NBA for Twitter comments (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 28:  Gilbert Arenas #1 of the Orlando Magic drives to the basket against Josh Smith #5 and Al Horford #15 of the Atlanta Hawks during Game Six of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on April 28, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Gilbert Arenas is in trouble with the NBA again. Arenas wrote on his Twitter page Wednesday that he was fined for comments he made on the social media site. NBA spokesman Tim Frank confirmed the Orlando guard had been fined, but declined to give the amount or the reason because it was not publicly announced.




Howard says first choice is to remain in Orlando
Dwight Howard is not planning on following Shaquille O'Neal's lead and bolting the Orlando Magic via fee agency.

Drew: Hawks close to taking next step (AP)
The Atlanta Hawks ended this season the same way they have the last two: losing in the second round of the playoffs. But coach Larry Drew and his players are encouraged about taking top-seeded Chicago to six games. The Hawks were certainly much more competitive against the Bulls than they were in sweeps by Cleveland in 2009 and Orlando a year ago.

Hawks G Hinrich says hamstring improving (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 02: Injured player Kirk Hinrich of the Atlanta Hawks cheers on his team from the bench against the Chicago Bulls in Game One of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on May 2, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Hawks defeated the Bulls 103-95. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Atlanta Hawks guard Kirk Hinrich says his ailing right hamstring is finally starting to show some improvement. Hinrich was hurt in the closing minutes of a series-clinching win over Orlando. Second-year player Jeff Teague has filled in admirably, averaging 16 points a game against the Bulls with only five turnovers.




Smith, Teague shine as Hawks even series (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 08:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls waits for play against the Atlanta Hawks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Phillips Arena on May 8, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Josh Smith had 23 points, 16 rebounds and eight assists, and Jeff Teague came up with another big game to lead the Atlanta Hawks past the Chicago Bulls 100-88 Sunday night, evening the Eastern Conference semifinals at two games apiece. The Hawks snapped a nine-game home losing streak in the second round of the playoffs, their misery dating to a May 13, 1996, win against Orlando.




Hawks shuffle lineup for Game 4 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 02: Jason Collins #34 of the Atlanta Hawks battles for a rebound with Omer Asik #3 of the Chicago Bulls in Game One of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on May 2, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The Atlanta Hawks have changed up their lineup for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Chicago Bulls. Coming off a blowout loss, coach Larry Drew returned Sunday to the lineup that worked so well in a first-round win over Orlando. Jason Collins will start at center, Al Horford moves to power forward and Josh Smith shifts to small forward.




Hawks leave Magic's Nelson tix to Game 1 (AP)
Jameer Nelson could have seen Derrick Rose in the second round, after all. With Atlanta facing Chicago in the Eastern Conference semifinals, Hawks spokesman Arthur Triche decided to have some fun at the Orlando point guard's expense and left him two tickets for Game 1 on Monday night. Triche says he "took a page" from former Falcons coach Jerry Glanville, who used to leave tickets for...

2011 NBA playoffs: Atlanta Hawks leave Game 1 tickets for Orlando Magic's Jameer Nelson
Since the Hawks eliminated his Magic on Thursday, Orlando point guard Jameer Nelson has some free time on his hands.

Magic enter offseason full of questions (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 28:  Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic reacts after a turnover to the Atlanta Hawks during Game Six of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on April 28, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

This was supposed to be a defining season for the Orlando Magic. Coming off a trip to the NBA finals two years ago and the Eastern Conference finals last year, this was supposed to be the season they turned championship flirtation into reality. Instead, the Magic were ousted in the first round Thursday night by the Atlanta Hawks, their first opening-round exit since 2007.




2011 NBA playoffs: Atlanta Hawks point guard Kirk Hinrich is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Friday
Atlanta Hawks point guard Kirk Hinrich was scheduled to undergo an MRI on Friday after straining his hamstring in the series-clinching victory over the Orlando Magic on Thursday.

2011 NBA playoffs: Atlanta Hawks point guard Kirk Hinrich undergoes MRI Friday
Atlanta Hawks point guard Kirk Hinrich was scheduled to undergo an MRI on Friday after straining his hamstring in the series-clinching victory over the Orlando Magic on Thursday.

Hawks getting ready for top-seeded Bulls (AP)
For a team that comes across as emotionally fragile, the Atlanta Hawks sure showed plenty of toughness in the opening round of the playoffs. They'll have to dig even deeper this time around. After knocking off Orlando 4-2 -- winning all three homes games by a total of 10 points -- the Hawks are getting ready to face the top-seeded Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Hawks hold off Magic, close series in six games
Joe Johnson scored 23 points and came up with a huge offensive rebound, leading the Atlanta Hawks to an 84-81 victory in Game 6 on Thursday night, knocking Orlando Magic out of the playoffs.

Hawks eliminate Magic, get Bulls next (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 28:  J.J. Redick #7 of the Orlando Magic lays in a basket past Jamal Crawford #11 of the Atlanta Hawks during Game Six of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on April 28, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Joe Johnson provided his usual offensive spark. His biggest play, though, was getting a hand on a missed shot. Johnson scored 23 points and came up with a huge offensive rebound, leading the Atlanta Hawks to an 84-81 victory in Game 6 on Thursday night, knocking the Orlando Magic out of the playoffs. The Hawks, who won the series 4-2, advanced to the second round for the third straight year, this...




Rose's 25 help Bulls finish off Pacers (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 26: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls claps while celebrating a play against the Indiana Pacers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on April 26, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pacers 116-89. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose and the rest of the Chicago Bulls are breathing a little easier after clearing one hurdle. Now they're staring at another big obstacle. That would be Atlanta or Orlando in the Eastern Conference semifinals that will get under way in earnest next week. The Bulls disposed of Indiana in a tough first-round series Tuesday night.




J-Rich, Magic force Game 6 by crushing Hawks
Jason Richardson scored 17 points and J.J. Redick added 14 to help the Orlando Magic stay alive in the playoffs with a 101-76 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night.

Magic rout Hawks, push series to Game 6 (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - APRIL 26:  A dancer of the Orlando Magic performs during Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals of the 2011 NBA Playoffs against the Atlanta Hawks on April 26, 2011 at the Amway Arena in Orlando, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by J. Meric/Getty Images)

Jason Richardson scored 17 points and J.J. Redick added 14 to help the Orlando Magic stay alive in the playoffs with a 101-76 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. The win kept alive the Magic's hopes of becoming the ninth team in NBA history to win a playoff series after trailing 3-1. If they can win Game 6 Thursday in Atlanta, they would host the decisive Game 7 on Saturday.




Pachulia back as Hawks can clinch series (AP)
When Zaza Pachulia showed up for practice Monday, one guy was really glad to see him. "I gave him a big hug," Hawks coach Larry Drew said. Atlanta's bruising center was suspended from Game 4 of the Eastern Conference playoffs after head-butting Orlando's Jason Richardson, a play that just added to the lore of a bench player who knows his role is to play physical, turn up the...

2011 NBA playoffs: Orlando Magic tab Quentin Richardson to replace suspended Jason Richardson for Game 4
The Orlando Magic will start Quentin Richardson in place of suspended shooting guard Jason Richardson Sunday night in Game 4 of their playoff series against the Atlanta Hawks.

Hawks take Game 4 for 3-1 lead on Magic
Jamal Crawford scored 25 points and Joe Johnson hit four big free throws in the final 20 seconds after Atlanta struggled most of the night at the line, leading the Hawks to an 88-85 victory over the Orlando Magic and a 3-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series Sunday night.

Hawks hang on late to thrust Magic to the brink
Jamal Crawford scored 25 points and Joe Johnson hit four big free throws in the final 20 seconds, leading the Hawks to an 88-85 win over the Orlando Magic and a 3-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series.

Hawks win 88-85, take 3-1 lead on Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) vies for a loose ball with Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith (5) as Magic's Hedo Turkoglu (15) watches in the third quarter during Game 4 of a first-round NBA basketball playoff series, Sunday, April 24, 2011, in Atlanta.

Jamal Crawford scored 25 points and Joe Johnson hit four big free throws in the final 20 seconds after Atlanta struggled most of the night at the line, leading the Hawks to an 88-85 victory over the Orlando Magic and a 3-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series Sunday night. The Hawks will try to wrap up the best-of-seven series Tuesday night in Orlando.




Hawks, Magic each lose player for a game
Atlanta Hawks' Zaza Pachulia, Orlando Magic's Jason Richardson suspended one playoff game for fighting.

2011 NBA playoffs: NBA suspends Zaza Pachulia of Atlanta Hawks, Jason Richardson of Orlando Magic for scuffle
Orlando Magic guard Jason Richardson and Atlanta Hawks center Zaza Pachulia have been suspended for Game 4 on Sunday for their roles in an altercation in the final minutes of Friday's game at Philips Arena, the NBA announced Saturday.

Two suspended for Hawks-Magic Game 4
The NBA has suspended Atlanta's Zaza Pachulia and Orlando's Jason Richardson for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference playoffs after their altercation in the closing minutes of the third game.

Crawford's late 3 helps Hawks top Magic (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 22:  Jason Richardson #23 of the Orlando Magic walks off the court with Quentin Richardson #5 after being ejected for fighting with Zaza Pachulia #27 of the Atlanta Hawks during Game Three of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on April 22, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Jamal Crawford banked in a 3-pointer with 5.7 seconds left to cap a brilliant second half, leading the Atlanta Hawks to an 88-84 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night and a 2-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series. The Hawks led most of the game, but things got close and testy in the final minutes.




Crawford's 3 lifts Hawks as tempers flare in win
Jamal Crawford banked in a 3-pointer with 5.7 seconds left to cap a brilliant second half, leading the Atlanta Hawks to an 88-84 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night and a 2-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series.

Crawford brilliant as Hawks beat Magic
Jamal Crawford banked in a 3-pointer with 5.7 seconds left to cap a brilliant second half, leading the Atlanta Hawks to an 88-84 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night and a 2-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series.

NBA playoffs 2011: Josh Smith of Atlanta Hawks likely for Game 2 despite elbow
Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith is expected to play in Tuesday night's playoff game against the Orlando Magic despite receiving extensive treatment the past two days for a bruised elbow.

Howard's 33 helps Magic even series vs. Hawks
Dwight Howard had 33 points and 19 rebounds, and Jameer Nelson added 13 points and eight rebounds and the Orlando Magic held off the Atlanta Hawks 88-82 on Tuesday night.

Magic hold off Hawks to even series at 1 (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - APRIL 19:  Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic drives as Zaza Pachulia #27 of the Atlanta Hawks defends during Game Two of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals of the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 19, 2011 at the Amway Arena in Orlando, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by J. Meric/Getty Images)

Dwight Howard had 33 points and 19 rebounds, Jameer Nelson added 13 points and eight rebounds and the Orlando Magic held off the Atlanta Hawks 88-82 on Tuesday night. The Magic evened the best-of-seven series, with Game 3 Friday night in Atlanta. Orlando used a 10-1 run to close the third quarter to take an 11-point lead into the fourth and fought off a late Atlanta charge down the stretch.




Howard, Nelson help Magic draw even
Dwight Howard had 33 points and 19 rebounds, and Jameer Nelson added 13 points and eight rebounds and the Orlando Magic held off the Atlanta Hawks 88-82 on Tuesday night.

Magic take on Hawks in Game 2
The Orlando Magic host the Atlanta Hawks in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series.

Howard named Defensive POY
For the third straight season — and to the surprised of no one — Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has been named the NBA's top defender.

Sources: Dwight Howard of Orlando Magic garners defensive player of the year
Dwight Howard will become the first player in league history to be named the NBA's defensive player of the year for the three consecutive seasons, league sources confirmed Monday.

Jason Williams announces retirement (AP)
The Grizzlies say point guard Jason Williams has decided to retire after a 12-year career. The team issued a statement Monday evening that the 35-year-old is announcing his retirement. The Grizzlies signed Williams on Feb. 7, after he was released by the Orlando Magic. Williams missed the final 17 games of the season with lower back soreness.

Howard wins third straight Defensive POY (AP)

Orlando Magic 's Dwight Howard (12) goes up for a rebound against Atlanta Hawks ' Al Horford , left, during the first half of Game 1 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series in Orlando, Fla., Saturday, April 16, 2011.

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard is the first player to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award three straight seasons. Only Dikembe Mutombo and Ben Wallace, with four each, have won the award more times. The league announced Monday that Howard received 585 points, including 114 first-place votes, from a panel of 120 sports writers and broadcasters.




NBA playoffs 2011: J.J. Redick of Orlando Magic will play in Game 1
After missing the past 17 games with injuries, Orlando Magic guard J.J. Redick was cleared to return to the lineup for Saturday night's playoff opener against the Atlanta Hawks.

Hawks overcome Howard's 46 to stun Magic (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - APRIL 16:  Jameer Nelson #14 (left) and Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic battle for a rebound against the Atlanta Hawks during Game One of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals of the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 16, 2011 at the Amway Arena in Orlando, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by J. Meric/Getty Images)

The Atlanta Hawks' dominance over the Orlando Magic this year is not just a regular-season phenomenon. For now, it also includes the postseason. Joe Johnson scored 25 points, Jamal Crawford finished with 23 and Atlanta beat Orlando 103-93 in Game 1 of their playoff series on Saturday, overcoming a monster night by Dwight Howard.




Howard's 46 not enough as Magic lose to Hawks
Joe Johnson scored 25 points, Jamal Crawford finished with 23 and the Atlanta Hawks beat Orlando 103-93 in Game 1 of their playoff series on Saturday, overcoming a monster night by Magic star Dwight Howard.

Howard scores 46, yet Hawks win big
Joe Johnson scored 25 points, Jamal Crawford finished with 23 and the Atlanta Hawks beat Orlando 103-93 in Game 1 of their playoff series on Saturday, overcoming a monster night by Magic star Dwight Howard.

2011 NBA Playoffs: J.J. Redick of Orlando Magic a game-time decision for opener
Magic guard J.J. Redick is a game-time decision for Game 1 of Orlando's first-round playoff matchup with the Hawks Saturday night, but says he feels healthy enough to play.

Magic's Redick 'close' to practicing (AP)
Magic guard J.J. Redick says he will sit out Orlando's regular season finale, but is "really close" to being able to practice with Orlando set to tip off the playoffs this weekend against Atlanta. Redick is sitting out his 17th straight game with a lower abdominal strain Wednesday night against the Indiana Pacers.

Magic G Redick close to returning
Magic guard J.J. Redick says he will sit out Orlando's regular season finale, but is ''really close'' to being able to practice with Orlando set to tip off the playoffs this weekend against Atlanta.

Magic beat Pacers to again reach 50 wins (AP)
Ryan Anderson scored 14 points, and Dwight Howard had 13 points and 13 rebounds in a short night of work as the Orlando Magic cruised to a 92-74 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night. Mike Dunleavy and Brandon Rush both scored 16 points for Indiana. Orlando beat Indiana for the fifth straight time, including three victories this season.

J.J. Redick of Orlando Magic to sit out finale, close to playoff return
J.J. Redick says he will sit out Orlando's regular season finale, but is "really close" to being able to practice with Orlando set to tip off the playoffs this weekend against Atlanta.

Howard leads Magic to win in return (AP)

Philadelphia 76ers coach Doug Collins calls out a play in the second half of the 76ers' NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic on Monday, April 11, 2011, in Philadelphia. The Magic won 95-85.

Dwight Howard returned from suspension to score 19 points, grab 13 rebounds and lead the Orlando Magic to a 95-85 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. Howard served an NBA suspension Sunday after picking up his 18th technical foul. He wasn't bothered by the refs -- or the Sixers -- in his return.




Howard returns from suspension to power Magic
Dwight Howard returned from suspension to score 19 points, grab 13 rebounds and lead the Orlando Magic to a 95-85 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night.

Dwight Howard of Orlando Magic says mounting technicals fouls won't change him
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard refuses to change the way he plays or interacts with officials, even as his soaring technical foul total earns him league-mandated suspensions.

Andre Iguodala of Philadelphia 76ers sits out with knee tendinitis
Philadelphia 76ers forward Andre Iguodala was inactive against Orlando on Monday night because of right knee tendinitis.

Bulls take on Magic in Orlando


East-leading Bulls edge Magic
Derrick Rose had 39 points and five assists and Luol Deng added 15 to help the Chicago Bulls hold off the Orlando Magic 102-99 on Sunday.

Rose's 39 lift surging Bulls past Magic (AP)
Derrick Rose had 39 points and five assists and Luol Deng added 15 to help the Chicago Bulls hold off the Orlando Magic 102-99 on Sunday. Orlando's Jameer Nelson appeared to tie it with a 3-pointer at the buzzer, but an official review upheld an initial call of no basket. Ryan Anderson led the Magic with a career-high 28 points, Jason Richardson added 24 and Nelson had 17.

Reeling Hawks routed by lowly Wizards (AP)

Atlanta Hawks guard Kirk Hinrich (6) shoots next to Washington Wizards guard John Wall in the first half of an NBA basketball game Saturday, April 9, 2011, in Washington.

Next week, the Atlanta Hawks will face the Orlando Magic in the first round of the playoffs. They couldn't be heading into the postseason in worse shape. The reeling Hawks lost their fourth straight game on Saturday, 115-83 against the Washington Wizards, and weren't even competitive. The loss was embarrassing and puzzling.




Wizards send Hawks to 4th loss in row
Next week, the Atlanta Hawks will face the Orlando Magic in the first round of the playoffs. They couldn't be heading into the postseason in worse shape.

Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard suspended one game for 18th technical foul
Dwight Howard has been suspended one game by the NBA for receiving his 18th technical foul of the season.

Magic push through in OT to eliminate Bobcats
Gilbert Arenas scored 25 points, and the Orlando Magic overcame Quentin Richardson's ejection and Dwight Howard's 18th technical foul to beat Charlotte 111-102 in overtime on Wednesday night and eliminate the Bobcats from playoff contention.

Pacers get first playoff spot since 2006 (AP)

Indiana Pacers forward Danny Granger , bottom, makes a basket in front of Washington Wizards forward Maurice Evans in the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game in Indianapolis, Wednesday, April 6, 2011. The Pacers defeated the Wizards 136-112.

Danny Granger scored 25 points, and the Indiana Pacers clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 2006 with a 136-112 victory against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night. The Pacers needed a win and a Charlotte loss to Orlando to clinch a spot in the postseason. As the Pacers' game ended, the Orlando-Charlotte game was in overtime, and the Conseco Fieldhouse staff put the game on...




Magic oust Bobcats from playoff race (AP)

Charlotte Bobcats coach Paul Silas reacts after a turnover in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic in Charlotte, N.C., Wednesday, April 6, 2011.

Gilbert Arenas scored 25 points, and the Orlando Magic overcame Quentin Richardson's ejection and Dwight Howard's 18th technical foul to beat Charlotte 111-102 in overtime on Wednesday night and eliminate the Bobcats from playoff contention. Jameer Nelson atoned for two turnovers in the closing seconds of regulation by hitting a jumper and banking in a 3-pointer in Orlando's 12-2 run...




Dwight Howard of Orlando Magic gets technical, suspension looms
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard is poised to serve another one-game suspension after picking up his NBA-high 18th technical foul of the season.

Howard poised for suspension over techs (AP)
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard is poised to serve another one-game suspension after picking up his NBA-high 18th technical foul of the season. The reason was a rare 10-second violation on a free throw attempt. The poor-shooting Howard has always been deliberate at the line, and referee Bennett Salvatore called a violation for taking too long to attempt his second shot late in the second quarter...

Magic top Bucks to help wrap up East's 4th seed
Dwight Howard had 18 points and 17 rebounds, Jameer Nelson scored 17 and the Orlando Magic beat the Milwaukee Bucks 78-72 on Tuesday night.

Magic clinch East's No. 4 seed with win (AP)
Dwight Howard had 18 points and 17 rebounds, Jameer Nelson scored 17 and the Orlando Magic beat the Milwaukee Bucks 78-72 on Tuesday night. Coupled with Atlanta's 97-90 loss to San Antonio, the Magic clinched the No. 4 seed for the Eastern Conference playoffs. Orlando won three of four in the season series to improve to 16-5 in its last 21 meetings against the Bucks.

Raptors beat Magic to end 6-game losing streak
DeMar DeRozan scored 24 points, Jerryd Bayless had 21 and the Toronto Raptors beat the Orlando Magic 102-98 on Sunday to snap a six-game losing streak.

Raptors end 6-game skid, down Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson , left, yells as he drives to the hoop past Toronto Raptors guard Jerryd Bayless during first-half NBA basketball game action in Toronto on Sunday, April 3, 2011.

DeMar DeRozan scored 24 points, Jerryd Bayless had 21 and the Toronto Raptors beat the Orlando Magic 102-98 on Sunday to snap a six-game losing streak. Leandro Barbosa added 14 points for the Raptors, James Johnson and Sonny Weems each had 11, and Reggie Evans finished with 17 rebounds. Dwight Howard had 31 points and nine rebounds and Jameer Nelson scored 21 points for the Magic, who have lost...




Magic trudging on despite injuries (AP)
The injury bug is consuming the Orlando Magic locker room heading into the final push for the playoffs. Guards J.J. Redick, Gilbert Arenas, Chris Duhon and Quentin Richardson have spent time on the training table recently. The Magic are playing their third straight game Sunday in Toronto with just nine available players.

Magic avoid 3-game skid, defeat Bobcats (AP)
Dwight Howard had 26 points and 14 rebounds, Jameer Nelson chipped in 15 points and six assists, and the Orlando Magic ran past the short-handed Charlotte Bobcats, 89-77 on Friday night. Quentin Richardson added 14 points off the bench for the Magic, who snapped a two-game losing streak by improving to 3-0 against the Bobcats this season.

Magic deal blow to fading Bobcats' playoff hopes
Dwight Howard had 26 points and 14 rebounds, Jameer Nelson chipped in 15 points and six assists, and the Orlando Magic ran past the short-handed Charlotte Bobcats, 89-77 on Friday night.

Los Angeles Lakers' Ron Artest among 4 nominated for citizenship award
Ron Artest is one of four nominees, along with Orlando's Dwight Howard, Chicago's Kyle Korver and Portland's Marcus Camby, for the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship award.

Dwight Howard of Orlando Magic has technical foul upheld, one away from second suspension
Dwight Howard's latest technical foul has been upheld by the NBA after a review, leaving Orlando's All-Star center one away from another suspension.

Dominique Wilkins attacked by fan after game, Atlanta Hawks say
The Atlanta Hawks say Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins was attacked by a fan after their victory over the Orlando Magic.

Howard just one tech from suspension
Dwight Howard's latest technical foul has been upheld by the NBA after a review, leaving Orlando's All-Star center one away from another suspension.

Johnson, Smith lift Hawks by Magic 85-82 (AP)

Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith , 5, walks off the court after their win over the Orlando Magic during an NBA basketball game in Atlanta Wednesday, March 30, 2011. ( AP Photo/Rich Addicks)

Joe Johnson's floating one-hander in the lane put Atlanta ahead with 55.4 seconds remaining and Orlando's Jameer Nelson missed two chances to tie it, allowing the Hawks to escape with an 85-82 victory Wednesday night in a likely playoff preview. Josh Smith led the Hawks with 26 points, and Johnson added 18.




Hawks best Magic in preview of potential playoff
Joe Johnson's floating one-hander in the lane put Atlanta ahead with 55.4 seconds remaining and Orlando's Jameer Nelson missed two chances to tie it, allowing the Hawks to escape with an 85-82 victory Wednesday night in a likely playoff preview.

Hawks escape against Magic for win
Joe Johnson's floating one-hander in the lane put Atlanta ahead with 55.4 seconds remaining and Orlando's Jameer Nelson missed two chances to tie it, allowing the Hawks to escape with an 85-82 victory Wednesday night in a likely playoff preview.

Howard's technical vs. Knicks upheld
Dwight Howard's latest technical foul has been upheld by the NBA after a review, leaving Orlando's All-Star center one away from another suspension.

Carmelo Anthony: New York Knicks must see Orlando Magic game as must win
Carmelo Anthony said the Knicks have to treat Monday's game against the Magic like a "must-win."

'Melo: Knicks-Magic 'almost a must win' (AP)
With the New York Knicks in a terrible late-season slump, Carmelo Anthony said Monday their game against the Orlando Magic was "almost a must win for us." The Knicks have lost six straight, tying their worst skid of the season, and nine of 10 to fall to 35-38. New York has gone 7-12 since acquiring Anthony in February, including a loss to the Magic last Wednesday.

'Melo: Next game almost a 'must win'
With the New York Knicks in a terrible late-season slump, Carmelo Anthony said Monday their game against the Orlando Magic was 'almost a must win for us.'

Anthony scores 39, Knicks end skid at 6 (AP)

New York Knicks ' Anthony Carter , right, goes up to block a shot by Orlando Magic guard Gilbert Arenas during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game Monday, March 28, 2011 at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Carmelo Anthony scored 39 points, his best effort since coming to New York, and the Knicks pulled out a 113-106 overtime victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night to snap a six-game losing streak. Hours after saying the game was "almost a must win" for the Knicks, Anthony added 10 rebounds, and the Knicks got some help when Dwight Howard fouled out in the extra session, then picked...




Knicks survive Magic in OT to snap 6-game slide
Carmelo Anthony scored 39 points, his best effort since coming to New York, and the Knicks pulled out a 113-106 overtime victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night to snap a six-game losing streak.

Orlando Magic's Jameer Nelson sits; J.J. Redick injury 'problematic'
Jameer Nelson is out for Orlando's game at New York, and coach Stan Van Gundy says J.J. Redick's lower abdominal strain is "a little more problematic."

Magic Gs Nelson, Redick out vs. Knicks (AP)
Jameer Nelson is out for Orlando's game at New York, and coach Stan Van Gundy says J.J. Redick's lower abdominal strain is "a little more problematic." Nelson sat out Monday with a sprained left knee, giving Gilbert Arenas his first start with the Magic. Orlando also was without backup forward Quentin Richardson (back spasms), but Van Gundy says both are expected back this week.

Knicks snap skid with OT win over Magic
Carmelo Anthony scored 39 points, his best effort since coming to New York, and the Knicks pulled out a 113-106 overtime victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night to snap a six-game losing streak.

Stars risk suspensions from technicals (AP)
Dwight Howard isn't worried about getting another suspension for drawing too many technical fouls. The Orlando center already has missed a game for accumulating too many and two more will cost him a game during the regular-season stretch run. Howard insists he'll be the "same guy" as the playoffs approach -- meaning he'll continue to hold animated conversations with officials...

Hornets ink Ewing Jr. to 10-day contract (AP)
The New Orleans Hornets have signed forward Patrick Ewing Jr. to a 10-day contract. The move comes a day after the club learned leading scorer David West will be lost for the rest of the season with a torn ligament in his left knee. Ewing is a former Georgetown standout and the 26-year-old son of Hall of Fame center and current Orlando assistant coach Patrick Ewing.

Magic rally in 4th, pull away from Nets (AP)

New Jersey Nets forward Jordan Farmer, right, drives around Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson (14) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Friday, March 25, 2011.

Dwight Howard had 21 points and 14 rebounds, and Hedo Turkoglu added 20 points and 13 assists to help the Orlando Magic hold off the New Jersey Nets in a 95-85 victory Friday night. The Magic led by 10 at the half before giving up the lead early in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter. They rallied and used a 13-0 run to put the game away.




Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says media already picked Derrick Rose as MVP
Stan Van Gundy believes the MVP race is already over, and Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls is going to win it.

Howard, Magic win 4th straight; Knicks sub-.500
Dwight Howard had 33 points and 11 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic won their fourth straight and sent the New York Knicks tumbling below .500 with a 111-99 victory Wednesday night.

Magic win again, send Knicks below .500 (AP)

New York Yankees ' Bernie Williams performs the national anthem before the New York Knicks play the Orlando Magic in an NBA basketball game on Wednesday, March 23, 2011, in New York.

Dwight Howard had 33 points and 11 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic won their fourth straight and sent the New York Knicks tumbling below .500 with a 111-99 victory Wednesday night. Jameer Nelson added 19 points, Hedo Turkoglu had 16 points and 11 rebounds, and Brandon Bass chipped in 15 points for the Magic, who held Amare Stoudemire to his worst game this season and beat the Knicks for the sixth...




Howard powers Magic past Knicks on road
Dwight Howard had 33 points and 11 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic won their fourth straight and sent the New York Knicks tumbling below .500 with a 111-99 victory Wednesday night.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says media already picked Derrick Rose as MVP
Stan Van Gundy believes the MVP race is already over, and Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls is going to win it.

Howard's 28 and 18 carry Magic over Cavs (AP)
Dwight Howard scored 28 points, grabbed 18 rebounds and was way too much for Cleveland's front line to handle in leading the Orlando Magic to a 97-86 win Monday night over the Cleveland Cavaliers. With the Cavs unable to stop Howard, the Magic built a 15-point lead in the first quarter and were up by 26 late in the third.

Howard, Magic have way with wayward Cavs
Dwight Howard scored 28 points, grabbed 18 rebounds and was way too much for Cleveland's front line to handle in leading the Orlando Magic to a 97-86 win Monday night over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Nuggets PG Felton won't face Raptors (AP)
Nuggets guard Raymond Felton says he won't play against the Toronto Raptors due to a sprained left ankle. Denver also will be without guard Arron Afflalo (left hamstring) on Monday against Toronto. Felton, who was acquired in the deal that sent Carmelo Anthony to the New York Knicks last month, tweaked his ankle at Orlando last Friday and sat out the next night in Miami.

Nuggets PG Felton out against Heat (AP)
Raymond Felton is out for Denver's game at Miami, hampered by a sprained left ankle. Felton was injured in the final minute of Denver's loss at Orlando on Friday. The guard is averaging 10.1 points, 6.7 assists and 4.2 rebounds in 11 games since being traded to the Nuggets, all coming off the bench.

Magic top Nuggets on Nelson 3 at buzzer (AP)

Denver Nuggets center Nene (31) from Brazil slam dunks the ball during the first half on an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic in Orlando, Fla., Friday, Mar. 18, 2011.

Jameer Nelson swished a 3-pointer from the top of the key at the buzzer to give the Orlando Magic a dramatic 85-82 win over the Denver Nuggets on Friday night. The Magic led most of the final period, but struggled at the line and let the Nuggets tie the game with 5.7 seconds to play. Dwight Howard led five Magic players in double figures with 16 points and 18 rebounds.




Nelson drains 3 at buzzer as Magic prevail late
Jameer Nelson swished a 3-pointer from the top of the key at the buzzer to give the Orlando Magic a dramatic 85-82 win over the Denver Nuggets on Friday night.

Howard has 31 and 22 as Magic win in OT (AP)
Even though Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic clinched a playoff berth with their effort on Wednesday night, the performance left a lot for them to ponder. "We did about everything wrong we could do," Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said. "Another game with 19 turnovers, we didn't make any free throws, we couldn't stop them.

Howard's 31 points, 22 boards spur Magic in OT
Dwight Howard had 31 points and 22 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 93-89 overtime victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday night that wrapped up a winning five-game road trip.

Andrew Bogut of Milwaukee sidelined vs. Orlando Magic with migraine
Bucks center Andrew Bogut will sit out Milwaukee's game Wednesday night against the Orlando Magic because of a migraine headache.

Lakers roll by Magic in 2nd half, 97-84 (AP)

Actor Robert Downey Jr. and his wife Susan Downey attend an NBA basketball game between the Orlando Magic and the Los Angeles Lakers , Monday, March 14, 2011, in Los Angeles. The Lakers won 97-84.

Pau Gasol scored 23 points, Kobe Bryant added 16 while playing on a sprained left ankle, and the Los Angeles Lakers roared away in the second half for their 10th win in 11 games, 97-84 over the Orlando Magic on Monday night. Andrew Bynum had 10 points, a career high-tying 18 rebounds and four blocks as the two-time defending NBA champions opened a seven-game homestand with another impressive...




Lakers rally for 10th win in 11 games
Pau Gasol scored 23 points, Kobe Bryant added 16 while playing on a sprained left ankle, and the Los Angeles Lakers roared away in the second half for their 10th win in 11 games, 97-84 over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant's ankle improved, still iffy for Orlando Magic game
Kobe Bryant's ankle has improved, but he's still a game-time decision for Monday.

Howard keys Magic rout of Nash-less Suns (AP)

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 13:  Jameer Nelson #14 of the Orlando Magic drives to the basket past Robin Lopez #15 of the Phoenix Suns during the NBA game at US Airways Center on March 13, 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona.  The Magic defeated the Suns 111-88. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Dwight Howard had 26 points and 15 rebounds, then watched the fourth quarter from the bench as the Orlando Magic completed a 111-88 rout of the Suns on Sunday for their first victory in Phoenix in nine seasons. With a hook shot over Robin Lopez in the third quarter, Howard topped 10,000 career points.




Magic rout Nash-less Suns for rare Phoenix win
Dwight Howard had 26 points and 15 rebounds, then watched the fourth quarter from the bench as the Orlando Magic completed a 111-88 rout of the Suns on Sunday for their first victory in Phoenix in nine seasons.

Magic put end to futility in Phoenix
Dwight Howard had 26 points and 15 rebounds, then watched the fourth quarter from the bench as the Orlando Magic completed a 111-88 rout of the Suns on Sunday for their first victory in Phoenix in nine seasons.

Billups back vs. Pacers, Granger out (AP)
Chauncey Billups is back in the starting lineup for the New York Knicks' game against the Indiana Pacers, who are without leading scorer Danny Granger. Billups missed six games with a bruised left thigh, but practiced Saturday and was playing Sunday for the first time since he was hurt March 1 when he banged into Orlando's Dwight Howard.

Phoenix Suns' Steve Nash sidelined Sunday, likely Monday too
The Phoenix Suns were without their star point guard Steve Nash Sunday when they faced the Orlando Magic.

Down 21, Warriors stun Magic in OT (AP)

Orlando Magic Dwight Howard , right, shoots against Golden State Warriors ' David Lee during overtime of an NBA basketball game Friday, March 11, 2011, in Oakland, Calif.

Monta Ellis had 39 points and 11 assists, Dorell Wright scored 32 points and the Golden State Warriors came back from 21 points down to stun the Orlando Magic 123-120 in overtime Friday night. Stephen Curry added 22 points and 12 assists, and the Warriors made a franchise-record 21 3-pointers to highlight a furious second-half push that toppled the Magic in thrilling fashion.




Warriors go wild from deep to beat Magic
Monta Ellis had 39 points and 11 assists, Dorell Wright scored 32 points and the Golden State Warriors came back from 21 points down to stun the Orlando Magic 123-120 in overtime Friday night.

Orlando Magic G J.J. Redick day to day with adbomen strain
Orlando Magic reserve shooting guard J.J. Redick was sidelined against the Golden State Warriors after straining a muscle in his lower abdomen during the morning shootaround.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy told he can't comment on dispute with David Stern
NBA commissioner David Stern might have finally muzzled Magic coach Stan Van Gundy -- at least for now.

Howard returns as Magic hold off Kings (AP)

Sacramento Kings guard Jermaine Taylor , left, keeps control of the ball after falling to the floor while trying to get past Orlando Magic guard Gilbert Arenas during the second quarter of an NBA basketball game in Sacramento, Calif., Wednesday, March 9, 2011.

Jameer Nelson scored 12 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter, and Dwight Howard returned from a one-game suspension to lead the Orlando Magic to a 106-102 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night. Howard had 16 points and 15 rebounds but fouled out late, and Jason Richardson scored 19 points to help the Magic overcome an eight-point deficit and open a five-game road trip with a...




David Stern expects to hear no more from Stan Van Gundy of Orlando Magic
NBA commissioner David Stern said Thursday that he won't personally speak to Stan Van Gundy about recent comments critical of the commissioner, but that he doesn't expect Van Gundy to make similar comments in the future.

Aldridge scores 24 to lead Blazers
LaMarcus Aldridge scored 24 points, Andre Miller added 15 and the Portland Trail Blazers held on to beat the Orlando Magic, who were without the suspended Dwight Howard, 89-85 on Monday night.

Trail Blazers hold off Howard-less Magic (AP)
LaMarcus Aldridge scored 24 points, Andre Miller added 15 and the Portland Trail Blazers held on to beat the Orlando Magic, who were without the suspended Dwight Howard, 89-85 on Monday night. Portland won its third straight, and 10th in 13 games. The Blazers also swept the two-game season series with Orlando.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy defends Dwight Howard on technicals suspension
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says he thinks Dwight Howard has shown restraint on the court this season despite picking up the league's first suspension for excessive technical fouls.

Van Gundy defends Howard on technicals (AP)
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says he thinks Dwight Howard has shown restraint on the court this season despite picking up the league's first suspension for excessive technical fouls. Van Gundy quoted an Elias Sports Bureau statistic Monday that notes Howard has been fouled 593 times this season without any of those calls being labeled flagrant.

Howard suspended one game for techs
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has been suspended for one game without pay for picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. He will serve the suspension Monday when the Magic are home against Portland.

Dwight Howard of Orlando Magic to serve technical suspension Monday
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has been suspended for one game without pay for picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. He will serve the suspension Monday when the Magic are home against Portland.

Magic's Howard banned 1 game for techs (AP)
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has been suspended for one game without pay for picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. He will serve the suspension Monday when the Magic are home against Portland. The penalty was announced Saturday by NBA executive Stu Jackson. Howard leads the NBA in technicals this season.

Rose, Bulls bounce back with big win over Magic
Derrick Rose had 24 points and Luol Deng added 16 to help the Chicago Bulls hang on for an 89-81 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday night in a matchup of two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.

Rose, Bulls hang on for win vs. Magic
Derrick Rose had 24 points and Luol Deng added 16 to help the Chicago Bulls hang on for an 89-81 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday night in a matchup of two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.

Bulls end Magic's 4-game winning streak (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) fights for a rebound against Chicago Bulls ' Omer Asik (3), of Turkey, and Taj Gibson (22) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Friday, March 4, 2011.

Derrick Rose had 24 points and Luol Deng added 16 to help the Chicago Bulls hang on for an 89-81 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday night in a matchup of two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls bounced back from one of their worst games of the month against Atlanta on Wednesday to post their eighth victory in 10 games.




Orlando Magic C Dwight Howard faces suspension after league-leading 16th technical foul
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard faces a one-game suspension after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season.

C Howard faces 1-game ban for techs (AP)
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard faces a one-game suspension after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. Howard, who leads the NBA in technicals this season, was whistled for another one with 1:41 left in the first half Friday night against Chicago. If the call is upheld following a review by the league, Howard would be suspended for Orlando's next game against Portland on Monday...

Suns G Carter won't play vs. Bucks (AP)
Phoenix Suns guard Vince Carter is sitting out against the Milwaukee Bucks because of dizziness following a collision with teammate Channing Frye. Carter and Frye collided in the third quarter of Phoenix's 115-103 loss to Boston on Wednesday night. Acquired from Orlando in a five-player trade in December, Carter is averaging 14.1 points and 4.2 rebounds in 52 games this season, his 13th in the...

Knicks' Billups out, Cavs' Davis to play (AP)
Knicks guard Chauncey Billups is sitting out a second straight game, while Baron Davis is expected to make his Cavaliers debut Friday night. Billups bruised his left thigh Tuesday in a loss at Orlando. Coach Mike D'Antoni said the point guard could have played in a postseason game, but instead will get at least one more game to rest the injury while Toney Douglas again starts.

Magic's Howard faces 1-game suspension
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard faces a one-game suspension after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season.

Magic rally from 24 down to stun Heat (AP)

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 03:  Gilbert Arenas #1 of the Orlando Magic passes around Mike Bibby #0 and Joel Anthony #50 of the Miami Heat during a game at American Airlines Arena on March 3, 2011 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Another big lead, another big collapse. It's becoming a trend for the Miami Heat -- and one the Orlando Magic were more than thrilled to exploit Thursday night. Down by 24 points in the third quarter, the Magic went on an unbelievable 40-9 run over the next 15 minutes and stunned the Heat 99-96, the second-largest comeback in Orlando franchise history and matching the second-biggest in the NBA...




Rasual Butler to take physical, to join Chicago Bulls for practice
Free agent forward Rasual Butler told ESPN 1000 he was scheduled to take a physical Thursday morning before joining the Chicago Bulls for practice in Orlando.

Heat face Magic in final regular-season meeting
LeBron hung 51 on Orlando in their last meeting. Now's the encore.

Heat finalize deal with PG Bibby (AP)
Mike Bibby signed with the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, the deal being finalized quickly after the 13-year veteran point guard cleared waivers and became a free agent. Bibby is expected to be with the Heat when they host Orlando on Thursday. Heat president Pat Riley says the signing moves Miami "into the direction of our championship dreams." His signing is not a surprise.

Knicks G Billups out with bruised thigh (AP)
Point guard Chauncey Billups will miss the New York Knicks' game against New Orleans on Wednesday night because of a bruised left thigh. Billups was hurt when he banged into Magic center Dwight Howard in the fourth quarter of the Knicks' 116-110 loss in Orlando on Tuesday. The Knicks say it's too soon to determine Billups' status for their next game, at home Friday against...

Magic ride 2nd-half surge past Knicks (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - MARCH 1:  Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic shoots against Shawne Williams #3 of the New York Knicks on March 1, 2011 at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)

Dwight Howard had 30 points and 16 rebounds, Jameer Nelson scored 23 of his 26 points in the second half, and the Orlando Magic outlasted the New York Knicks 116-110 on Tuesday night. The Magic trailed 58-47 at halftime, but surged in the second half as the Knicks struggled from the field. The win was the Magic's third straight and fifth in six games.




Howard, Magic rally past 'Melo, Knicks
Dwight Howard had 30 points and 16 rebounds, Jameer Nelson scored 23 of his 26 points in the second half, and the Orlando Magic outlasted the New York Knicks 116-110 on Tuesday night.

Howard leads Magic past Bobcats (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) goes up for a shot in front of Charlotte Bobcats center Kwame Brown during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 27, 2011.

Dwight Howard had 20 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic past the Charlotte Bobcats, 100-86 on Sunday night. Brandon Bass added 17 points and Gilbert Arenas chipped in 16, making four 3-pointers to break out of a recent shooting slump. Orlando won for the fourth time in five games and 12th in 14 meetings with Charlotte.




Magic blow past Bobcats despite Jackson's 35
Dwight Howard had 20 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic past the Charlotte Bobcats, 100-86 on Sunday night.

Howard dominant as Magic rout Thunder
Dwight Howard had 40 points and 15 rebounds, powering the Orlando Magic to a 111-88 victory over the short-handed Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night.

Howard unstoppable as Magic throttle Thunder
Dwight Howard had 40 points and 15 rebounds, powering the Orlando Magic to a 111-88 victory over the short-handed Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night.

Howard scores 40 as Magic beat Thunder (AP)
Dwight Howard had 40 points and 15 rebounds, powering the Orlando Magic to a 111-88 victory over the short-handed Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night. Jason Richardson added 17 points for the Magic, who earned their first victory since the All-Star break and have won three of their last four overall.

Struggling Kings stun Magic in Orlando (AP)

Sacramento Kings guard Luther Head (3) makes a shot over Orlando Magic forward Hedo Turkoglu , left, of Turkey, and Jameer Nelson at the end of the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011. The Kings won 111-105.

Jermaine Taylor had 21 points, Beno Udrih added 18 and the Sacramento Kings beat Orlando 111-105 on Wednesday night to snap a five-game losing streak against the Magic. Samuel Dalembert and Jason Thompson had 17 points apiece for Sacramento, which won for just the third time in its last 11 games. Dwight Howard had 31 points and 17 rebounds for Orlando.




Interim coach Vogel has Pacers rolling (AP)
In just 10 games, Pacers interim coach Frank Vogel has replaced confusion and doubt with a swagger that hasn't been seen or heard in these parts since Reggie Miller retired. Among Vogel's straight-faced boasts, he claims Boston, Miami and Orlando won't want to play the Pacers when -- not if -- they make the playoffs.

Howard leads Magic to rout of Wizards (AP)

Washington Wizards  guard John Wall (2) drives into the basket against Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson (14) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2011.

Dwight Howard had 32 points and 10 rebounds for his 45th double-double of the season and the Orlando Magic beat the Washington Wizards 101-76 Wednesday night. The Magic won their second straight game and head into the All-Star break winners of four of their last five. They are 10-1 in their last 11 games against teams with records below .500.




Howard (32 points), Magic too much for Wizards
Dwight Howard had 32 points and 10 rebounds for his 45th double-double of the season and the Orlando Magic beat the Washington Wizards 101-76 Wednesday night.

Orlando Magic senior vice president Pat Williams: 'I am going to beat' blood cancer
The always upbeat Pat Williams said Wednesday he plans to beat the blood cancer he has been diagnosed with and has started an aggressive treatment.

Magic senior VP Williams has cancer (AP)
The always upbeat Pat Williams said Wednesday he plans to beat the blood cancer he has been diagnosed with and has started an aggressive treatment. The longtime Orlando Magic executive was diagnosed with blood multiple myeloma, an incurable, but treatable blood cancer. The 70-year-old Williams was diagnosed with the disease after taking a routine physical early in January.

Orlando Magic senior vice president Pat Williams diagnosed with blood cancer
Orlando Magic senior vice president and longtime NBA executive Pat Williams has been diagnosed with a form of blood cancer.

Magic senior VP Williams has cancer (AP)
Orlando Magic senior vice president and longtime NBA executive Pat Williams has been diagnosed with a form of blood cancer. The team released a statement Tuesday saying that the 70-year old Williams has a condition known as multiple myeloma. The cancer was discovered during a physical for Orlando executives, just six weeks after his annual physical.

Magic VP Williams diagnosed with cancer
Orlando Magic senior vice president and longtime NBA executive Pat Williams has been diagnosed with a form of blood cancer.

Howard, Magic snap Lakers' 4-game win streak
Dwight Howard had 31 points and 13 rebounds as the Orlando Magic earned their first victory over a winning team in more than a month, downing the Los Angeles Lakers 89-75 on Sunday.

Howard's 31 and 13 power Magic by Lakers (AP)

Orlando Magic forward Earl Clark , left, blocks a shot by Los Angeles Lakers guard Shannon Brown during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011.

Dwight Howard had 31 points and 13 rebounds as the Orlando Magic earned their first victory over a winning team in more than a month, downing the Los Angeles Lakers 89-75 on Sunday. Kobe Bryant and Andrew Bynum each had 17 points to lead the Lakers. Lamar Odom added 13 and Pau Gasol 11. Jason Richardson chipped in 12 points for the Magic.




Brandon Bass of Orlando Magic to return from sprained ankle against Lakers
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says forward Brandon Bass won't start but is expected to play against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Magic F Bass expected to play vs. Lakers (AP)
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says forward Brandon Bass won't start but is expected to play against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Magic's frontcourt has been thin since Bass sprained his left ankle in Orlando's 100-97 loss at Memphis on Jan. 31. He has missed the past six games. Orlando has gone 3-3 without him.

Hornets rally vs. sloppy Magic, snap losing skid
Willie Green had 24 points and David West added 17 points and 17 rebounds as the New Orleans Hornets rallied to beat the Orlando Magic 99-93.

Hornets snap 4-game skid, beat Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy instructs his team during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Hornets in Orlando, Fla., Friday, Feb. 11, 2011. The Hornets won 99-93.

Willie Green had 24 points and David West added 17 points and 17 rebounds as the New Orleans Hornets rallied to beat the Orlando Magic, 99-93. The Hornets snapped a four-game losing streak, while Orlando's loss stopped a string of two straight wins. The Magic are now 5-6 since posting their last three-game winning streak last month.




Orlando Magic memorabilia up for grabs at auction
This weekend, fans and collectors will have a chance to take home a sentimental piece of arguably the most meaningful building in Orlando history.

Howard (30 points) helps Magic hold off 76ers
Dwight Howard had 30 points and 17 rebounds, J.J. Redick came off the bench to score 13 points and the Orlando Magic beat the Philadelphia 76ers 99-95 on Wednesday night.

Magic's Howard annoyed by contract talk (AP)
Magic center Dwight Howard says he is annoyed by the recent talk about his contract and the possibility he would leave Orlando when he becomes a free agent. Howard expounded on some recent Twitter comments Tuesday morning at the Magic's practice before Tuesday night's game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Magic use big 2nd half to top Clippers (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - FEBRUARY 08:  Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic attempts a shot attempts a shot during a game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Amway Arena on February 8, 2011 in Orlando, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

Dwight Howard had 22 points and 20 rebounds and Jameer Nelson added 17 points, including going 4 for 5 from 3-point range, as Orlando used a second-half surge to get past the Los Angeles Clippers 101-85 Tuesday night. It was the Magic's ninth straight win over the Clippers and second of the season.




Howard powers Magic past Clippers
Dwight Howard had 22 points and 20 rebounds and Jameer Nelson added 17 points, including going 4 for 5 from 3-point range, as Orlando used a second-half surge to get past the Los Angeles Clippers 101-85 Tuesday night.

Howard is sick of the contract talk
Magic center Dwight Howard says he is annoyed by the recent talk about his contract and the possibility he would leave Orlando when he becomes a free agent.

Howard sounds off on free-agency rumors
Howard wouldn't turn on Orlando like Shaq did -- would he?

Dwight Howard of Orlando Magic anoyed by contract talk
Magic center Dwight Howard says he is annoyed by the recent talk about his contract and the possibility he would leave Orlando when he becomes a free agent.

Memphis Grizzlies bring back point guard Jason Williams
Jason Williams, released last month by the Orlando Magic, signed a contract Monday to return to the Memphis Grizzlies

Grizzlies sign veteran PG Williams (AP)
Jason Williams, released last month by the Orlando Magic, signed a contract Monday to return to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he played from 2001-05. Grizzlies officials announced the signing moments before the game with the Los Angeles Lakers. The signing had been rumored for about a week, but the team would not confirm their interest in the point guard until he was officially signed.

Grizzlies sign G Williams to contract
Jason Williams, released last month by the Orlando Magic, signed a contract Monday to return to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he played from 2001-05.

Rondo, Celtics beat cold-shooting Magic (AP)

BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 06:  Earl Clark #3 of the Orlando Magic tries to get around Kendrick Perkins #43 of the Boston Celtics on February 6, 2011 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeated the Magic 91-80. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Rajon Rondo scored 11 of his 26 points in the third quarter when the Boston Celtics capitalized on Orlando's cold shooting to take charge and go on to a 91-80 win over the Magic on Sunday. Boston led 46-43 at halftime and stretched that to 70-55 with 3:36 left in the third quarter. At that point, the Celtics had made 9 of their 10 shots in the period while the Magic had hit just 4 of 18.




Boston Celtics' Marquis Daniels collides with Gilbert Arenas, leaves game
Celtics' Marquis Daniels suffered a neck injury during the second quarter of Sunday's game against the Orlando Magic and needed to be taken from the court on a stretcher in a scary scene on the Garden floor.

Celts' Daniels leaves game on stretcher (AP)
Boston Celtics guard Marquis Daniels has left the game on a stretcher after colliding with Gilbert Arenas of the Orlando Magic. The Celtics said Daniels, who gave a thumbs-up sign as he was taken off the court Sunday, hurt his neck and was taken to New England Baptist Hospital for examination. He was hurt with 11:01 left in the second quarter after he began driving to the basket from the right side...

Howard stars in Arenas' return to DC (AP)

Orlando Magic point Jameer Nelson (14) pushes past Washington Wizards guard Kirk Hinrich (12) during the fourth quarter of their NBA basketball game at the Verizon Center in Washington, Friday, Feb. 4, 2011. The Magic beat the Wizards, 110-92.

Dwight Howard scored 22 points and had 15 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 110-92 win over the Washington Wizards on Friday in Gilbert Arenas' return to the Verizon Center. While the pregame attention was on Arenas, Howard was the star of the game. A night after playing all 48 minutes in a 104-100 loss to Miami, Howard made his first 10 field goals and didn't miss a shot until 2:20...




Gilbert Arenas served court documents during halftime
Orlando guard Gilbert Arenas has been served with child support and custody papers as he was leaving the court during halftime of a Magic game.

Magic's Arenas served papers at halftime (AP)
Orlando guard Gilbert Arenas has been served with child support and custody papers as he was leaving the court during halftime of a Magic game. A process server stopped Arenas as he walked off the court Thursday night against the Miami Heat. The court documents, obtained by The Associated Press, were a California petition filed by Laura Mendoza Govan.

Arenas served court petition during game
Orlando guard Gilbert Arenas has been served with child support and custody papers as he was leaving the court during halftime of a Magic game.

Ryan Anderson to start for Orlando Magic in place of Brandon Bass
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said that he will start forward Ryan Anderson against Miami in place of Brandon Bass, who sustained a left ankle sprain earlier this week.

LeBron scores 51 as Heat hold on to beat Magic
LeBron James had 51 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists, including a 23-point first quarter, to lead Miami to a 104-100 victory over Orlando on Thursday night.

James scores 51, Heat top Magic 104-100 (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - FEBRUARY 3:  LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat shoots against Quentin Richardson #5 of the Orlando Magic on February 3, 2011 at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)

LeBron James had 51 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists, including a 23-point first quarter, to lead Miami to a 104-100 victory over Orlando on Thursday night. It was a season high for James, whose scoring effort tied for the fifth most points of his career. The Heat exploited a thin Magic front line that was missing injured starting forward Brandon Bass.




LeBron dominates Magic with 51 points
LeBron James had 51 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists, including a 23-point first quarter, to lead Miami to a 104-100 victory over Orlando on Thursday night.

James sets Heat record with 23 in 1st (AP)
LeBron James has set a Miami Heat record with a 23-point first quarter against the Orlando Magic. James was 9 for 9 from the field in the opening period Thursday night, mostly on midrange jumpers, scoring all but seven of Miami's points in the first 12 minutes. He also made five of six free-throw attempts.

LeBron James of Miami Heat still remembers Orlando Magic's summer criticism
LeBron James puts Cleveland Cavaliers history to bed while focusing on upcoming showdown with the division rival Orlando Magic.

Magic miss 3 at buzzer as Mayo sparks Grizzlies
Mike Conley scored 26 points and had a key steal late, and Jason Richardson missed a 40-footer at the buzzer as the Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Orlando Magic 100-97 on Monday night.

Conley helps Grizzlies top Magic 100-97 (AP)
Mike Conley scored 26 points and had a key steal late, and Jason Richardson missed a 40-footer at the buzzer as the Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Orlando Magic 100-97 on Monday night. Gilbert Arenas made one of two foul shots to cut the Grizzlies lead to 98-97 with 40 seconds left. Conley stole the ball from Orlando forward Ryan Anderson and was fouled.

Conley, Grizzlies edge Magic
Mike Conley scored 26 points and had a key steal late, and Jason Richardson missed a 40-footer at the buzzer as the Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Orlando Magic 100-97 on Monday night.

Howard powers Magic past Cavs in rout
Dwight Howard had 20 points and 20 rebounds in three quarters of work, Ryan Anderson added 23 points and 16 rebounds and the Orlando Magic handed the Cleveland Cavaliers their 20th straight loss and 30th in 31 games, 103-87 on Sunday night.

Howard, Magic extend Cavs' skid to 20 (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Samardo Samuels (24), center, dunks the ball in front of Orlando Magic forwards Hedo Turkoglu (15), of Turkey, and Ryan Anderson (33), right, as Ryan Hollins (5), left, and Manny Harris (6) watch during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011. The Magic won 103-87.

Dwight Howard had 20 points and 20 rebounds in three quarters of work, Ryan Anderson added 23 points and 16 rebounds and the Orlando Magic handed the Cleveland Cavaliers their 20th straight loss and 30th in 31 games, 103-87 on Sunday night. Howard had his 36th double-double of the season by halftime.




Howard's 20-20 sends Cavs to 20th straight loss
Dwight Howard had 20 points and 20 rebounds in three quarters of work, Ryan Anderson added 23 points and 16 rebounds and the Orlando Magic handed the Cleveland Cavaliers their 20th straight loss and 30th in 31 games, 103-87 on Sunday night.

Bulls improve to 11-0 within division (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Omer Asik blocks a shot by Indiana Pacers ' Jeff Foster during the second quarter in an NBA basketball game in Chicago on Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011.

Carlos Boozer had 24 points and 10 rebounds, Derrick Rose scored 20 points despite two stomach ulcers and the Chicago Bulls beat the struggling Indiana Pacers 110-89 on Saturday night. Luol Deng added 19 points after scoring 26 the previous night against Orlando, and the Bulls improved to 11-0 against Central teams while remaining the lone unbeaten team against its own division.




Rose, Bulls defeat Magic despite Howard's 40
Derrick Rose scored 22 points despite two painful stomach ulcers, Luol Deng added 26, and the Chicago Bulls beat Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic 99-90 on Friday night.

Rose scores 22 despite ulcers, Bulls win (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 28: Carlos Boozer #5 of the Chicago Bulls looks to pass under pressure from Hedo Turkoglu #15 of the Orlando Magic at the United Center on January 28, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Magic 99-90. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 22 points despite two painful stomach ulcers, Luol Deng added 26, and the Chicago Bulls beat Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic 99-90 on Friday night. The Bulls won for the ninth time in 11 games even though Howard scored a season-high 40 points, taking the lead with a big third quarter and then holding off a late push by Orlando.




Bulls' Rose playing against Orlando
All-Star point guard Derrick Rose will play for the Chicago Bulls against the Orlando Magic on Friday despite two painful stomach ulcers.

Struggling Rose leads Bulls over Magic
Derrick Rose scored 22 points despite two painful stomach ulcers, Luol Deng added 26, and the Chicago Bulls beat Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic 99-90 on Friday night.

All-Star starters: James, Wade, Rose (AP)
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat are headed to the All-Star game together, and Derrick Rose gave the Chicago Bulls their first starter since Michael Jordan. They will be joined in the Eastern Conference starting lineup by Amare Stoudemire, who will become the first New York Knicks player to start in nearly two decades, and Orlando center Dwight Howard, the leading vote-getter in the...

Magic waive backup guard Jason Williams
The Orlando Magic have waived point guard Jason Williams.

Hot-shooting Magic roll past Pacers (AP)

Indiana Pacers forward Danny Granger , right, shoots over Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson in the second half of an NBA basketball game in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011. The Magic defeated the Pacers 111-96.

Dwight Howard had 19 points and 16 rebounds to help the Orlando Magic beat the Indiana Pacers 111-96 on Wednesday night. Jason Richardson had 19 points and nine rebounds, Hedo Turkoglu scored 18 points and Ryan Anderson added 14 for the Magic, who made 16-of-34 3-pointers and shot 50 percent from the field.




Howard's double-double leads Magic
Dwight Howard had 19 points and 16 rebounds to help the Orlando Magic beat the Indiana Pacers 111-96 on Wednesday night.

Orlando Magic waive resert point guard Jason Williams
The Orlando Magic have waived point guard Jason Williams.

The team announced the move in a statement on Wednesday. Williams didn't make the trip for the Magic's road game against Indiana Wednesday night.

Magic waive PG Jason Williams (AP)
The Orlando Magic have waived point guard Jason Williams. The team announced the move in a statement on Wednesday. Williams didn't make the trip for the Magic's road game against Indiana Wednesday night. Magic president of basketball operations Otis Smith told reporters after the morning shoot around that he didn't think Williams, who had slipped to the fourth point guard spot, was upset...

Pistons drop Magic for 2nd straight win
Tracy McGrady, Tayshaun Prince and Austin Daye each scored 20 points to help the Detroit Pistons to a 103-96 victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

McGrady's 20 help Pistons stun Magic (AP)

Detroit Pistons ' Austin Daye holds up three fingers on each hand after making a 3-point shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic in Orlando, Fla., Monday, Jan. 24, 2011. Detroit won 103-96.

Tracy McGrady and Tayshaun Prince each scored 20 points to help the Detroit Pistons to a 103-96 victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night. The Pistons scored 26 points off 16 Orlando turnovers and shot 50 percent from 3-point range to earn their first victory of the season over the Magic. Rodney Stuckey and Ben Gordon added 16 points apiece for Detroit.




Magic score big in first half, coast past Rockets
Dwight Howard had 22 points and 14 rebounds, Hedo Turkoglu added 21 points and the Orlando Magic built a big first-half lead on their way to an easy 118-104 win over the Houston Rockets on Saturday night.

Howard has 31 and 19 as Magic cruise (AP)

Orlando Magic forward Ryan Anderson , left, goes up for a shot in front of Toronto Raptors ' Jose Calderon , of Spain, during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Friday, Jan. 21, 2011.

Dwight Howard had 31 points and 19 rebounds, helping the Orlando Magic rout the reeling Toronto Raptors 112-72 on Friday night. Ryan Anderson added 21 points for Orlando, which avenged a four-point home loss to the Raptors in November. Howard earned his 31st double-double of the season, J.J. Redick scored 12 points and Brandon Bass finished with 10.




Howard, Magic doom Raptors to 6th loss in row
Dwight Howard had 31 points and 19 rebounds, helping the Orlando Magic rout the reeling Toronto Raptors 112-72 on Friday night.

Week 14 Fantasy Basketball Planner
A handful of players are starting to make some noise in Fantasy, namely Nick Young in Washington and Ryan Anderson in Orlando. Sergio Gonzalez touches on that and goes around the league in his Fantasy Planner.

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Magic survive against pesky Sixers in OT
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy looked like the spirit had been drained from him during Wednesday morning's shootaround as he described what he wasn't seeing from his team following a disappointing 2-3 road trip.

Magic rally late, beat Sixers in OT (AP)

Philadelphia 76ers coach Doug Collins questions a call by an official during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011. Orlando won in overtime, 99-98.

Jason Richardson converted a 4-point play with 17 seconds left, Dwight Howard scored 18 points before fouling out late in regulation and the Orlando Magic defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 99-98 in overtime Wednesday night. Reserve Ryan Anderson scored 20 to lead the Magic, who survived another slow start and spotty defense with some big baskets down the stretch.




Garnett saves the day in return
Kevin Garnett is back. As Orlando found out Monday, so is Boston's intensity.

Garnett returns, has big steal for Celts (AP)

BOSTON, MA - JANUARY 17:  Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic is fouled by Kevin Garnett #5 of the Boston Celtics  on January 17, 2011 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeated the Magic 109-106.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Kevin Garnett didn't look injured when he nimbly sidestepped a pick, reached out to intercept a pass and help the Celtics steal a victory from Orlando. The Celtics forward returned after missing nine games with a leg injury and scored 19 points, adding eight rebounds and a key steal with 16 seconds left on Monday night to help Boston beat the Magic 109-106.




Garnett returns as Celtics edge Magic
Kevin Garnett returned after missing nine games with an injured leg and came up with a steal in the final seconds to help the Boston Celtics beat the Orlando Magic 109-106 on Monday night.

KG keys Celtics' win in final seconds vs. Magic
Kevin Garnett returned after missing nine games with an injured leg and came up with a steal in the final seconds to help the Boston Celtics beat the Orlando Magic 109-106 on Monday night.

Magic overcome slow start to put away Wolves
Jason Richardson scored 21 points and Ryan Anderson added 15 points and 11 rebounds to lift the Orlando Magic to a 108-99 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night.

Magic snap 2-game skid, beat Wolves (AP)
Jason Richardson scored 21 points and Ryan Anderson added 15 points and 11 rebounds to lift the Orlando Magic to a 108-99 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night. Dwight Howard had 16 points and nine rebounds and J.J. Redick scored 21 for the Magic, who ended a two-game skid and have now won 10 of their last 12.

Hornets hold on in OT to halt Magic's win streak
Emeka Okafor had 18 points and 14 rebounds, and the New Orleans Hornets held off Orlando 92-89 in overtime on Wednesday night, snapping the Magic's nine-game winning streak.

Durant, Westbrook power Thunder past Magic
Kevin Durant scored 36 points, Russell Westbrook added 32 in his fourth career triple-double and the Oklahoma City Thunder fought off the Orlando Magic 125-124 Thursday night for their fourth straight win.

Durant, Westbrook lift Thunder by Magic (AP)

Oklahoma City Thunder center Nenad Krstic , left, of Serbia, jumps up for a rebound over Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson , center, in the first quarter of an NBA basketball game in Oklahoma City, Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011. Oklahoma City won 125-124.

Kevin Durant scored 36 points, Russell Westbrook added 32 in his fourth career triple-double and the Oklahoma City Thunder fought off the Orlando Magic 125-124 Thursday night for their fourth straight win. Westbrook also had 13 assists and 10 rebounds in Oklahoma City's highest-scoring game of the season.




Thunder stars unstoppable vs. Magic
Kevin Durant scored 36 points, Russell Westbrook added 32 in his fourth career triple-double and the Oklahoma City Thunder fought off the Orlando Magic 125-124 Thursday night for their fourth straight win.

Suns rally from 15 down, beat Nets in OT (AP)

Phoenix Suns ' Jared Dudley , left, is fouled by New Jersey Nets ' Jordan Farmar as he goes up for a shot in the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2011, in Phoenix. The Suns defeated the Nets 118-109 in overtime.

Steve Nash had 23 points and 16 assists, Vince Carter also scored 23 points, and the Phoenix Suns erased a 15-point, fourth-quarter deficit to beat the New Jersey Nets 118-109 in overtime on Wednesday night. Nash scored 10 in overtime and Carter had his highest point total since coming from Orlando in a trade on Dec.




Okafor helps Hornets top Magic in overtime
Emeka Okafor had 18 points and 14 rebounds, and the New Orleans Hornets held off Orlando 92-89 in overtime on Wednesday night, snapping the Magic's nine-game winning streak.

Hornets end Magic's 9-game run in OT (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard dunks on  New Orleans Hornets , from left to right, guard Willie Green , center Emeka Okafor , forward David West and forward Trevor Ariza in the first half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2011.

Emeka Okafor had 18 points and 14 rebounds, and the New Orleans Hornets held off Orlando 92-89 in overtime on Wednesday night, snapping the Magic's nine-game winning streak. Marcus Thornton capped a 22-point performance with a crucial jumper and two free throws in the final minute of the extra period as the Hornets took lead for good and won their second straight.




Hornets G Belinelli sprains right ankle (AP)
Hornets shooting guard Marco Belinelli has left the game between New Orleans and the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night with a sprained right ankle. Belinelli was hurt early in the first quarter when he came down awkwardly after trying to tap out a rebound. He was taken to the locker room for treatment before ultimately being ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Magic extend streak, beat depleted Mavs (AP)

Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson (14) shoots against Dallas Mavericks ' Shawn Marion (0) and Tyson Chandler (6) in the first half of an NBA basketball game, Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011, in Dallas.  The Magic won 117-107.

Dwight Howard had 23 points and 13 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic extended the NBA's longest active winning streak to nine games with a 117-107 victory over the injury-depleted Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night. Jason Richardson scored 20 points and Jameer Nelson had 16 for Orlando, which rallied from a 16-point, first-half deficit.




Magic top Mavs for 9th consecutive win
Dwight Howard had 23 points and 13 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic extended the NBA's longest active winning streak to nine games with a 117-107 victory over the injury-depleted Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night.

Magic win eighth straight, rip Rockets (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) gets off a shot past Houston Rockets ' Jordan Hill , left, during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Friday, Jan. 7, 2011. Orlando won 110-95.

Jason Richardson and Brandon Bass scored 18 points apiece, and the Orlando Magic rolled to a 110-95 victory over the Houston Rockets on Friday night. The victory extended the Magic's season-best winning streak to eight games. The loss was the fourth straight for Houston. Orlando clung to a three-point advantage at the half, but blew open the game by starting the third quarter on a 19-5 run to...




Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard hopes to see Yao Ming of Houston Rockets back, healthy
Magic center Dwight Howard says Yao Ming may have come back from his last injury too soon and that he hopes to see the Houston big man back in the NBA soon.

Howard: Yao may have come back too soon (AP)
Magic center Dwight Howard says Yao Ming may have come back from his last injury too soon and that he hopes to see the Houston big man back in the NBA soon. The 25-year-old Howard said at Friday's shoot around before Orlando plays Houston, that a player who is away from the game for a while rushes to get back -- and that's what he thinks Yao may have done.

James, Wade, Bryant lead All-Star voting (AP)
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade of the Heat and Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo of the Celtics are on pace to be voted as starters for the NBA All-Star game. Garnett and Rondo remained in second place at their positions behind the Heat duo in the third voting returns announced Thursday. Orlando center Dwight Howard is the other leader among Eastern Conference players and has the most votes of any player...

Ellis rallies Warriors by Hornets (AP)

Golden State Warriors head coach Keith Smart reacts as he watches his team play against the New Orleans Hornets in the first half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011. Golden State defeated New Orleans 110-103.

Monta Ellis scored 29 points and the Golden State Warriors rallied to beat the New Orleans Hornets 110-103 on Wednesday night. The Warriors, who faded badly in the second half of losses to Miami and Orlando before traveling to New Orleans, turned that trend around. Trailing 82-72 after three quarters, they went on a 27-7 run in the first 7 minutes of the fourth to go ahead 99-89, then hit their...




Howard helps Magic edge short-handed Bucks
Dwight Howard had 28 points and 13 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic held off the injury-depleted Milwaukee Bucks 97-87 on Wednesday night for their seventh straight victory.

Magic hold on for seventh straight win (AP)

Milwaukee Bucks forward Corey Maggette , right, is fouled by Orlando Magic forward Hedo Turkoglu , of Turkey, while going up for a shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011. The Magic won 97-87.

Dwight Howard had 28 points and 13 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic held off the injury-depleted Milwaukee Bucks 97-87 on Wednesday night for their seventh straight victory. Milwaukee lost for the seventh time in 10 games, trudging on without three of its five top scorers in guard Brandon Jennings (broken left foot), guard Carlos Delfino (concussion-like symptoms) and forward Drew Gooden (plantar...




Magic gets rolling in second half to rout Warriors
Hedo Turkoglu had 10 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists and Dwight Howard added 22 points and 17 rebounds, leading the Orlando Magic to a 110-90 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Monday night.

Turkoglu nets triple-double in Magic win (AP)
Hedo Turkoglu had 10 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists and Dwight Howard added 22 points and 17 rebounds, leading the Orlando Magic to a 110-90 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Monday night. Jason Richardson scored 20 points for the Magic, who had 76 points in the second half after trailing 53-44 at halftime.

NBA fines Magic coach Van Gundy $35,000 (AP)
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy has been fined $35,000 for his comments about the officiating in Orlando's 112-103 victory over the New York Knicks on Thursday. NBA Executive Vice President Stu Jackson announced the penalty on Saturday.

Stan Van Gundy of Orlando Magic fined $35K for saying officials targeting Dwight Howard
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy has been fined $35,000 for publicly saying after Orlando's 112-103 win Thursday night that officials are targeting center Dwight Howard this season.

Howard, Magic beat back Knicks, win 5 straight
Dwight Howard had 24 points and 18 rebounds in a bruising battle with Amare Stoudemire, and the Orlando Magic beat the New York Knicks 112-103 on Thursday night for their fifth straight win.

Howard powers Magic past Knicks
Dwight Howard had 24 points and 18 rebounds in a bruising battle with Amare Stoudemire, and the Orlando Magic beat the New York Knicks 112-103 on Thursday night for their fifth straight win.

Howard's 24 and 18 lift Magic by Knicks (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) goes up for a shot past New York Knicks ' Wilson Chandler , right, as Magic's Jason Richardson (23) looks on during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Thursday, Dec. 30, 2010.

Dwight Howard had 24 points and 18 rebounds in a bruising battle with Amare Stoudemire, and the Orlando Magic beat the New York Knicks 112-103 on Thursday night for their fifth straight win. Stoudemire finished with 30 points, four rebounds and four assists but was got into foul trouble early in a matchup of two of the NBA's best big men.




Ex-fiancee says Arenas abandoned kids
Orlando Magic guard Gilbert Arenas -- who was just traded by the Wizards -- is accused by his ex-fiancee of abandoning her and their three children prior to his departure from Washington, D.C., the Washington Post reported Wednesday.

Magic drains 19 3-pointers to wash away Cavs
Gilbert Arenas scored 22 points, fellow newcomer Jason Richardson added 20, and the Orlando Magic made a season-high 19 3-pointers in a 110-95 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night.

Magic hit 19 3s, stretch win streak to 4 (AP)
Gilbert Arenas scored 22 points, fellow newcomer Jason Richardson added 20, and the Orlando Magic made a season-high 19 3-pointers in a 110-95 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night. Orlando won its fourth straight by breaking open a close game in the fourth quarter with leading scorer Dwight Howard on the bench.

Turkoglu's 20 spark Magic to 3rd straight win
Dwight Howard had 19 points and 13 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic won their third straight with a 104-88 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Monday night.

Magic top Nets after bus trouble in snow (AP)

New Jersey Nets ' Devin Harris (34), who led all scorers with 24 points in a 104-88 loss to the Orlando Magic , draws a foul on Orlando Magic's Jason Richardson during the second quarter of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Dec. 27, 2010, in Newark, N.J.

Dwight Howard had 19 points and 13 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic won their third straight with a 104-88 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Monday night. Hedo Turkoglu scored 20 points as the Magic had six players in double figures in beating the Nets for the third time in three meetings this season.




Magic's bus gets stuck in pile of snow (AP)
The Orlando Magic had an easier time getting to New Jersey in a snowstorm than they did getting from their hotel to the arena. A bus carrying some players and coaches to their game against the Nets on Monday night got stuck in snow shortly after leaving their hotel. The players were forced to walk a couple of blocks back to the W Hotel in Hoboken, where they boarded a second bus taking the rest of...

Shaq fined $35,000 for criticizing refs (AP)
Shaquille O'Neal has been fined $35,000 by the NBA for his public comments about the officiating. O'Neal criticized the referees following the Boston Celtics' 86-78 loss at Orlando on Christmas. He was angry after picking up his sixth foul when Magic center Dwight Howard fell to the ground as they were wrestling for position.

Magic top Nets for third straight win
Dwight Howard had 19 points and 13 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic won their third straight with a 104-88 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Monday night.

Shaq hit with $35K fine for ref comments
The NBA announced Monday that Boston Celtics center Shaquille O’Neal has been fined $35,000 for comments he made about the officiating in the Celtics’ 86-78 loss to the Orlando Magic Saturday.

Spurs bounce back, top depleted Wizards (AP)

San Antonio Spurs ' Tony Parker (9), of France, works the ball around Washington Wizards ' Josh Howard , who falls to the floor during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010, in San Antonio. The Spurs won 94-80.

Tony Parker had 20 points, 14 assists and six assists and the NBA-leading San Antonio Spurs beat the short-handed Washington Wizards 94-80 on Sunday night. The Spurs improved to 24-6, rebounding from a 123-101 loss to Orlando on Thursday night that snapped their winning streak at 11. The league leaders in 3-point percentage, San Antonio shot 10 of 24 from long range.




Van Gundy jokes: Double Christmas slate (AP)
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy has gone from being a Scrooge about playing on Christmas to perhaps spreading a little too much holiday cheer. Van Gundy sarcastically suggested Saturday that the NBA go from five to 10 games on Christmas and start them at midnight. Orlando was hosting Boston for the second straight year on Christmas.

Dwight Howard had previously been warned about time at free throw line
After receiving repeated warnings from the league office about his deliberate pace at the free throw line, Dwight Howard was assessed a rare delay of game violation during Orlando's win over Boston.

Magic finish strong to end Celtics' 14-game run
Brandon Bass scored 21 points and the Orlando Magic ended the Boston Celtics' 14-game winning streak with a 86-78 victory Saturday.

Magic halt Celtics' 14-game win streak (AP)

Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson , right, drives past Boston Celtics center Glen Davis during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Saturday, Dec. 25, 2010. The Magic won 86-78.

Brandon Bass scored 21 points and the Orlando Magic ended the Boston Celtics' 14-game winning streak with an 86-78 victory Saturday. Hedo Turkoglu added 16 points while Jameer Nelson and J.J. Redick each made a jumper in the final minutes to help Orlando rally from 12 points down in the second half for back-to-back wins against the NBA's best.




Magic rally to end Celtics' win streak
Brandon Bass scored 21 points and the Orlando Magic ended the Boston Celtics' 14-game winning streak with a 86-78 victory Saturday.

Video: Dwight Howard on Orlando's win


Celts take 14-game win streak to Orlando (AP)
Celtics coach Doc Rivers remembers when Boston overhauled its roster three years ago. Sure, the talent was there with the Big Three. So were the questions. "When we made our move everybody told us you had to wait a year to put a championship team together," Rivers said before the Celtics practiced Friday in Orlando.

New-look Magic roll, snap Spurs' winning streak
Gilbert Arenas had 14 points and nine assists off the bench, and the reconstructed Orlando Magic cruised past San Antonio 123-101 on Thursday night to snap the Spurs' 10-game winning streak.

Arenas helps Magic end Spurs' run at 10 (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard , center, blocks a shot by San Antonio Spurs guard Gary Neal , right, as Magic's J.J. Redick watches during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Thursday, Dec. 23, 2010. The Magic won 123-101.

Gilbert Arenas had 14 points and nine assists off the bench, and the reconstructed Orlando Magic cruised past San Antonio 123-101 on Thursday night to snap the Spurs' 10-game winning streak. Arenas added six rebounds backing up a sick Jameer Nelson, fellow newcomer Jason Richardson had 15 points and the Magic snapped a skid of eight losses in nine games to win for the first time since they...




Magic end Spurs' 10-game winning streak
Gilbert Arenas had 14 points and nine assists off the bench, and the reconstructed Orlando Magic cruised past San Antonio 123-101 on Thursday night to snap the Spurs' 10-game winning streak.

Jermaine O'Neal's return to Boston Celtics delayed by illness
The Celtics hope Jermaine O'Neal will be ready for the Christmas game at Orlando.

Orlando Magic's Daniel Orton has arthroscopic knee surgery
Orlando Magic rookie center Daniel Orton is recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his left knee.

Magic rookie C Orton has knee surgery (AP)
Orlando Magic rookie center Daniel Orton is recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. The procedure was performed Thursday morning. Orton is not expected to begin practicing again until at least February. The 6-foot-10, 255-pound center was the 29th overall pick in the NBA draft after playing only one season at Kentucky.

Skidding Orlando Magic hold practice after back-to-back games
Instead of enjoying what otherwise would have been a work-free day coming off a back-to-back set, the Orlando Magic pushed through a two-hour practice session Wednesday afternoon.

Mavs beat Magic, complete Florida sweep (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 21:  Caron Butler #4 of the Dallas Mavericks shoots a jumper against the Orlando Magic on December 21, 2010 at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)

All the uncertainty around Orlando couldn't have worked out better for the Dallas Mavericks. Not that they've had a problem with anybody lately. Caron Butler scored 20 points, Dirk Nowitzki had 17 and the streaking Mavericks became the latest team to topple the reconstructed Magic in a 105-99 victory Tuesday night.




Howard's 23 boards can't help Magic top Mavs
Caron Butler scored 20 points, Dirk Nowitzki had 17 and the Dallas Mavericks became the latest team to topple the reconstructed Orlando Magic in a 105-99 victory Tuesday night.

Mavs stay hot on road, take down Magic
Caron Butler scored 20 points, Dirk Nowitzki had 17 and the Dallas Mavericks became the latest team to topple the reconstructed Orlando Magic in a 105-99 victory Tuesday night.

Retooled Magic fall in Atlanta
Al Horford scored 24 points and the Atlanta Hawks rolled to a 91-81 victory over Dwight Howard and the reconstructed Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Hawks have no problem against new-look Magic
Al Horford scored 24 points and the Atlanta Hawks rolled to a 91-81 victory over Dwight Howard and the reconstructed Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Wizards end 7-game skid, rout Bobcats (AP)

Washington Wizards guard Kirk Hinrich (12) dribbles against Charlotte Bobcats point guard D.J. Augustin (14) during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Dec. 20, 2010, in Washington. The Wizards won 108-75.

The Washington Wizards limited the Charlotte Bobcats to one field goal in the third quarter and cruised to a 108-75 victory on Monday night that snapped a seven-game losing streak. Nick Young scored 21 points for the Wizards, short-handed while No. 1 pick John Wall remained injured and Rashard Lewis was unavailable after coming in a trade with Orlando for Gilbert Arenas.




Hawks roll past reconstructed Magic (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 20:  Gilbert Arenas #1 makes his Orlando Magic debut against the Atlanta Hawks on December 20, 2010 at Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.  (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images)

Al Horford scored 24 points and the Atlanta Hawks rolled to a 91-81 victory over Dwight Howard and the reconstructed Orlando Magic on Monday night. Orlando, which hasn't had time to practice since acquiring Gilbert Arenas, Jason Richardson and Hedo Turkoglu on Saturday, struggled to find an offensive flow all night.




Gilbert Arenas makes debut with Orlando Magic as a backup
Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy says Gilbert Arenas will play as a reserve in his first game with the Magic against the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night.

'Surprised' Lewis joins Wizards (AP)
Though he was surprised, Rashard Lewis was hardly fazed by a trade from a finals contender to a lottery team. "When I got traded, a lot of people were feeling sympathy for me, and I said I don't want it," Lewis said Monday during his introductory press conference as a member of the Washington Wizards, 48 hours after he was dealt from Orlando for Gilbert Arenas.

Arenas to come off bench in Magic debut (AP)
Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy says Gilbert Arenas will play as a reserve in his first game with the Magic against the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night. The high-scoring Arenas was acquired from Washington. Jason Richardson, Hedo Turkoglu and Earl Clark were acquired from Phoenix on Saturday. Van Gundy says Richardson and Turkoglu will start.

Phoenix Suns get PG Steve Nash back but are still short-handed
The Phoenix Suns are short-handed for their game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, with three players acquired in a trade with Orlando yet to join the team.

Orlando Magic consider making deal for Gilbert Arenas of Washington Wizards
Magic president Otis Smith says he has had talks this week with the Washington Wizards about acquiring troubled guard Gilbert Arenas.

Magic discussing dealing for Arenas (AP)
Orlando Magic president Otis Smith says he has had talks this week with the Washington Wizards about acquiring troubled guard Gilbert Arenas. Smith said Saturday he would rate the seriousness of the talks at an "eight out of 10" but that "nothing is imminent." He would not talk specifics of the potential deal.

Magic shake up roster with major trades
A person familiar with the situation says the Orlando Magic have traded for the Washington Wizards' Gilbert Arenas and Hedo Turkoglu and Jason Richardson of the Phoenix Suns.

Sixers defeat shorthanded Magic
The Orlando Magic had every excuse in the world to fall flat. Pick any one of them -- they all fit fine for the Philadelphia 76ers.

Orlando dresses only 8 players in loss to 76ers
Lou Williams scored 24 points, Andre Iguodala had 21 and the Philadelphia 76ers beat the undermanned Orlando Magic 97-89 on Saturday night.

Short-handed Magic lose at home to 76ers (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 18:  Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic attempts a shot during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Amway Arena on December 18, 2010 in Orlando, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

Lou Williams scored 24 points, Andre Iguodala had 21 and the Philadelphia 76ers beat the undermanned Orlando Magic 97-89 on Saturday night. Elton Brand finished with 20 points to help Philadelphia to a relatively easy victory on a day the Magic made a pair of blockbuster moves to overhaul their roster.




Magic talking trade for Arenas
Orlando Magic president Otis Smith says he has had talks this week with the Washington Wizards about acquiring troubled guard Gilbert Arenas.

Magic better after blockbuster
The Orlando Magic are better off after pulling blockbuster trade.

Magic get Arenas, Turkoglu, Richardson (AP)
The Orlando Magic acquired troubled guard Gilbert Arenas from the Washington Wizards and Hedo Turkoglu and Jason Richardson from the Phoenix Suns in a major roster shakeup Saturday. Orlando traded forward Rashard Lewis for Arenas, then sent Vince Carter, Mickael Pietrus and backup center Marcin Gortat to Phoenix.

Report: Magic agree to blockbuster deal
The Orlando Magic, in the midst of a 16-9 start to the season, have re-acquired forward Hedo Turkoglu and dispatched Vince Carter in a six-player trade with the Phoenix Suns, according to multiple Internet reports.

Dwight Howard gives slumping Magic a rare pep talk
At the end of a grueling 2.5-hour practice Thursday, Dwight Howard gathered his Orlando Magic teammates to deliver a rare pep talk complete with strong words.

Magic looking to end struggles (AP)
At the end of a grueling 21/2-hour practice Thursday, Dwight Howard gathered his Orlando Magic teammates to deliver a rare pep talk complete with strong words. "I don't get impressed if we come out and practice hard," he said, recalling the talk. "That's easy. We've been a hardworking team every day in practice, but us as a team, we have to be able to go out and play hard...

Nuggets fend off Magic thanks to Anthony's 35
Carmelo Anthony scored 35 points and the Denver Nuggets pulled away in the final five minutes to beat the Orlando Magic 111-94 despite J.J. Redick's career-high 29 points.

Billups out after aggravating hurt wrist
Denver Nuggets point guard Chauncey Billups will miss the game Tuesday night against the Orlando Magic after aggravating his sprained right wrist.

Anthony's 35 help Nuggets upend Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic guard J.J. Redick hangs his head as he leaves the court following the team's 111-94 loss to the Denver Nuggets during an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2010, in Denver. Redick scored 29 points against the Denver Nuggets.

Carmelo Anthony scored 35 points and the Denver Nuggets pulled away in the final five minutes to beat the Orlando Magic 111-94 despite J.J. Redick's career-high 29 points. With Denver leading 92-91, Arron Afflalo's 3-pointer jump-started the Nuggets on a 19-3 run to close out the game. Anthony hit 14 of 21 shots from the floor and pulled down 11 rebounds.




'Melo carries Nuggets past Magic
Carmelo Anthony scored 35 points and the Denver Nuggets pulled away in the final five minutes to beat the Orlando Magic 111-94 despite J.J. Redick's career-high 29 points.

Chauncey Billups of Denver Nuggets will sit out after aggravating wrist injury
Denver Nuggets point guard Chauncey Billups will miss the game Tuesday night against the Orlando Magic after aggravating his sprained right wrist.

Nuggets PG Billups out against Magic (AP)
Denver Nuggets point guard Chauncey Billups will miss the game Tuesday night against the Orlando Magic after aggravating his sprained right wrist. Billups played with a partially torn ligament in his shooting wrist for the last two weeks after injuring it against New Jersey on Nov. 20 when he collided with Nets forward Stephen Graham.

Magic snap 4-game skid, beat Clippers (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard reacts to call from the fans during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Clippers , Sunday, Dec. 12, 2010, in Los Angeles. The Magic won 94-85.

Dwight Howard scored 22 points and the Orlando Magic defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 94-85 Sunday night, snapping skids of four games overall and three straight on the road. Jameer Nelson added 17 points, Vince Carter 13, and Brandon Bass had 13 points and a career high-tying 11 rebounds for his first double-double of the season.




Howard, Magic get back on track vs. Clippers
Dwight Howard scored 22 points and the Orlando Magic defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 94-85 Sunday night, snapping skids of four games overall and three straight on the road.

Magic top Clippers, end four-game skid
Dwight Howard scored 22 points and the Orlando Magic defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 94-85 Sunday night, snapping skids of four games overall and three straight on the road.

Blazers win third in row despite 39 from Howard
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Andre Miller returned from a one-game suspension to score 22 points and the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Orlando Magic 97-83 on Thursday night to extend their winning streak to three games.

Wesley Matthews had 20 points for the Blazers, who trailed by 14 points in the first half but led by 15 points in the second. Portland's modest winning streak comes after six straight losses.

Dwight Howard had a season-high 39 points in the loss, the Magic's third straight. The team had...

Miller returns, leads Blazers over Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) drives to the basket on Portland Trail Blazers power forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first quarter of the game at the Rose Garden on Thursday, Dec. 9, 2010, in Portland, Ore.

Andre Miller returned from a one-game suspension to score 22 points and the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Orlando Magic 97-83 on Thursday night to extend their winning streak to three games. Wesley Matthews had 20 points for the Blazers, who trailed by 14 points in the first half but led by 15 points in the second.




Jazz hand Magic fourth straight loss
Deron Williams scored a season-high 32 points and the Utah Jazz beat Orlando 117-105 on Friday night, the highest total the slumping Magic have allowed all season.

Williams scores 32 as Jazz best slumping Magic
Deron Williams scored a season-high 32 points and the Utah Jazz beat Orlando 117-105 on Friday night, the highest total the slumping Magic have allowed all season.

Jazz send Magic to fourth straight loss (AP)

Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy, right, runs away from assistant coach Patrick Ewing, left, as they joke before their team's NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake City, Friday, Dec. 10, 2010.

Deron Williams scored a season-high 32 points and the Utah Jazz beat Orlando 117-105 on Friday night, the highest total the slumping Magic have allowed all season. CJ Miles scored 19 of his season-high 26 points in the fourth quarter for the Jazz, who swept the Magic this season. Paul Millsap had 22 points and Andrei Kirilenko added 17 to help the Jazz complete their six-game homestand with a 4-2...




Raja Bell out of Jazz game vs. Magic; Gordon Hayward starts
Jazz guard Raja Bell will miss Utah's game against the Orlando Magic with a strained right adductor muscle.

Magic expect Howard, others back vs. Hawks
A stomach virus that forced the Orlando Magic to send home four key players during a recent road trip is beginning to subside.

Orlando struggles across board in loss to Hawks


Magic healthy again but lose to Hawks (AP)

Orlando Magic 's Vince Carter (15) blocks a shot by Atlanta Hawks ' Marvin Williams during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Monday, Dec. 6, 2010.

Josh Smith had 19 points and 13 rebounds, Mike Bibby made a critical 3-pointer in the final minute and the Atlanta Hawks beat the Orlando Magic 80-74 on Monday night. Al Horford added 16 points and 10 rebounds for the Hawks, who have won six of their last seven. Jamal Crawford had 15 points and Bibby finished with 13.




Hawks hang on late to beat Magic
Josh Smith had 19 points and 13 rebounds, Mike Bibby made a critical 3-pointer in the final minute and the Atlanta Hawks beat the Orlando Magic 80-74 on Monday night.

Smith, Hawks edge past Magic on Bibby's late 3
Josh Smith had 19 points and 13 rebounds, Mike Bibby made a critical 3-pointer in the final minute and the Atlanta Hawks beat the Orlando Magic 80-74 on Monday night.

Jameer Nelson, J.J. Redick among 4 Magic players sent home with stomach virus
A stomach virus moving through the Orlando Magic has forced the team to send home four key players.

Bogut leads Bucks over depleted Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic 's Vince Carter shoots in front of Milwaukee Bucks ' Andrew Bogut (6) and Larry Sanders (8) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010, in Milwaukee.

Andrew Bogut scored a season-high 31 points and had 18 rebounds in his return from a back injury, but still seemed upset with his play in the Milwaukee Bucks' 96-85 victory over the depleted Orlando Magic on Saturday night. Bogut missed eight consecutive free throws at one point while being fouled intentionally in the fourth quarter and was only 5 of 16 overall.




Bogut, Bucks top short-handed Magic
Andrew Bogut scored a season-high 31 points and had 18 rebounds in his return from a back injury, but still seemed upset with his play in the Milwaukee Bucks' 96-85 victory over the depleted Orlando Magic on Saturday night.

Four Magic players sent home with virus
A stomach virus has forced the Orlando Magic to send home four key players.

Magic handle Pistons despite flu-stricken bench
Brandon Bass scored a career-high 27 points, and the Orlando Magic overcame a stomach virus that sidelined four key players to beat the Detroit Pistons 104-91 Friday night.

Magic win without sick Howard, 3 others (AP)

Detroit Pistons ' Ben Wallace (6) grabs a rebound against the Orlando Magic in the first half of an NBA basketball game, Friday, Dec. 3, 2010, in Auburn Hills, Mich.

Brandon Bass scored a career-high 27 points, and the Orlando Magic overcame a stomach virus that sidelined four key players to beat the Detroit Pistons 104-91 Friday night. Orlando was without star center Dwight Howard, and Jameer Nelson, J.J. Redick and Mickael Pietrus were also unavailable because of the stomach bug.




Bass carries Magic past Pistons on road
Brandon Bass scored a career-high 27 points, and the Orlando Magic overcame a stomach virus that sidelined four key players to beat the Detroit Pistons 104-91 Friday night.

Orlando Magic missing Dwight Howard, Mickael Pietrus, Jameer Nelson, J.J. Redick vs. Detroit Pistons
The Magic are without four players, including center Dwight Howard, because of a stomach virus that has left the team short-handed for its game against Detroit on Friday night.

Howard, 3 Magic teammates out with virus (AP)
The Orlando Magic are without four players, including center Dwight Howard, because of a stomach virus that has left the team short-handed for its game against Detroit on Friday night. Howard and Mickael Pietrus will miss both this game and Orlando's game at Milwaukee on Saturday night. Guards Jameer Nelson and J.J.

Four Magic players miss game with virus
The Orlando Magic are without four players, including center Dwight Howard, because of a stomach virus that has left the team short-handed for its game against Detroit on Friday night.

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer will be a game-time decision against the Orlando Magic
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer said Wednesday he'll warm up and see how his right hand feels before deciding to make his season debut against the Orlando Magic.

Nelson, Magic steamroll Bulls in Boozer's debut
Jameer Nelson scored 24 points and the Orlando Magic dominated the paint and cruised to a 107-78 victory over Chicago on Wednesday night, spoiling the Bulls debut of forward Carlos Boozer.

Magic rout Bulls, spoil Boozer's debut (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Joakim Noah reacts after missing a basket during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic in Chicago, Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010. The Magic won 107-78.

Jameer Nelson scored 24 points and the Orlando Magic dominated the paint and cruised to a 107-78 victory over Chicago on Wednesday night, spoiling the Bulls debut of forward Carlos Boozer. Boozer played his first game of the season after missing all of Chicago's preseason games plus the first 15 of the regular season after breaking the fifth metatarsal in his right hand in an accident at his...




Magic keep rolling thanks to boost from bench
Mickael Pietrus scored 13 points, J.J. Redick had 10 points and the two reserves combined to help the Orlando Magic pull away for a 90-79 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night.

Magic bench keys 90-79 win over Pistons (AP)

Orlando Magic 's Vince Carter , left, goes in for a shot as he is guarded by Detroit Pistons ' Richard Hamilton (32) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2010.

Mickael Pietrus scored 13 points, J.J. Redick had 10 points and the two reserves combined to help the Orlando Magic pull away for a 90-79 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night. Rashard Lewis had 20 points, and Vince Carter added 13 in a win against a Detroit franchise that has caused Orlando headaches for years.




Carlos Boozer practices with Chicago Bulls; status uncertain for Orlando Magic game
Carlos Boozer practiced with the Chicago Bulls, but his status is uncertain for the Orlando Magic game.

Cavs coach Scott fined for ripping refs (AP)
Cleveland Cavaliers coach Byron Scott has been fined $35,000 for publicly criticizing game officials. NBA Executive Vice President Stu Jackson announced the discipline Sunday for the comments Scott made following Cleveland's 110-100 loss at Orlando on Friday. Scott criticized officials Ed Malloy, Bennie Adams and Kevin Fehr.

Howard's putback in closing seconds lifts Magic
Dwight Howard scored a season-high 32 points, including the game-winning putback with 4.3 seconds left, and had 11 rebounds to give the Orlando Magic a 100-99 win over the Washington Wizards on Saturday night.

Howard's 32, late putback lift Magic (AP)

Washington Wizards coach Flip Saunders reacts to a play during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic on Saturday, Nov. 27, 2010, in Washington.

Dwight Howard scored a season-high 32 points, including the game-winning putback with 4.3 seconds left, and had 11 rebounds to give the Orlando Magic a 100-99 win over the Washington Wizards on Saturday night. Quentin Richardson scored 20 for the Magic, who have won seven of their last eight games in Washington.




Howard's putback dramatically lifts Magic
Dwight Howard scored a season-high 32 points, including the game-winning putback with 4.3 seconds left, and had 11 rebounds to give the Orlando Magic a 100-99 win over the Washington Wizards on Saturday night.

Scott expects fine for criticizing refs (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers coach Byron Scott, left, talks to Mo Williams in the third quarter of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2010, in Cleveland. Williams scored 25 points including a final shot at the end of the game to give the Cavaliers an 83-81 win over the Milwaukee Bucks .

Cavaliers coach Byron Scott said he expects to be fined by the NBA after criticizing officials following a loss at Orlando. After Cleveland's 110-100 loss on Friday, Scott criticized officials Ed Malloy, Bennie Adams and Kevin Fehr. He bemoaned having to play a team where "there's five white jerseys and three with stripes.




Cleveland Cavaliers coach Byron Scott expects to be fined for comments about officials
Cavaliers coach Byron Scott said he expects to be fined by the NBA after criticizing officials following a loss at Orlando.

Washington Wizards minus John Wall, Al Thornton, Yi Jianlian vs. Orlando Magic
Washington Wizards rookie guard John Wall will miss Saturday night's game against the Orlando Magic with a bruised right knee.

Howard, Magic win second straight minus Carter
Dwight Howard had 23 points and 11 rebounds, Jameer Nelson scored 20 points, and the Orlando Magic beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 111-100 on Friday night.

Howard, Nelson lead Magic over Cavaliers (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers ' Mo Williams (2) passes the ball around Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Friday, Nov. 26, 2010.

Dwight Howard had 23 points and 11 rebounds, Jameer Nelson scored 20 points, and the Orlando Magic beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 111-100 on Friday night. J.J. Redick, starting for the second straight game in place of the injured Vince Carter, added 15 points for Orlando, which won for the sixth time in its last seven games.




Orlando Masgic guard Vince Carter out again, J.J. Redick slated to start
Vince Carter will not play in Friday's game against Cleveland, Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said after his team completed its shootaround.

Magic's Carter out vs. Heat with injury
Orlando Magic shooting guard Vince Carter is inactive against the Miami Heat on Wednesday night after he sprained his left knee.

Van Gundy: Jackson's comments 'ignorant' (AP)

Indiana Pacers guard T.J. Ford , right, drives on Cleveland Cavaliers guard Ramon Sessions in the second half of an NBA basketball game in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2010. Indiana won 100-89. Sessions and teammate Daniel Gibson led Cleveland scoring with 15 each.

How's this for a twist in the Sunshine State rivalry: Orlando's Stan Van Gundy is coming to the defense of Miami coach Erik Spoelstra. A day after Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Spoelstra's job could be in jeopardy if Miami doesn't start winning soon, Van Gundy called those comments "inappropriate" and "ignorant." Jackson told a Chicago radio station...




Magic hand Heat first 3-game skid (AP)

Miami Heat 's LeBron James (6) looks for an opening around Orlando Magic 's Jameer Nelson , left, during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2010.

First came "The Decision." Then the expectations. Now the pressure is on the Miami Heat more than ever. Even from the White House. Dwight Howard had 24 points and 18 rebounds, J.J. Redick scored 20 points and the Orlando Magic beat Miami 104-95 on Wednesday night to hand the Heat's All-Star trio its first three-game losing streak.




Orlando Magic's Jason Williams ejected after throwing ball at Jamaal Magloire's head
Magic reserve point guard Jason Williams has been ejected for throwing the ball at the Heat's Jamaal Magloire after a play. Williams whizzed the ball by Magloire's head.

Bosh dealing with back spasms vs. Magic (AP)
Add Chris Bosh to the Miami Heat's growing injury list. Bosh went to the locker room because of back spasms in the first quarter against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. He returned in the second quarter. Bosh landed awkwardly after grabbing a rebound and limped off the court holding his left hip.

Miami Heat's Chris Bosh returns vs. Orlando Magic after leaving with back spasms
Add Chris Bosh to the Miami Heat's growing injury list.

Van Gundy rips Jackson's Heat comment
How's this for a twist in the Sunshine State rivalry: Orlando's Stan Van Gundy is coming to the defense of Miami coach Erik Spoelstra.

Reeling Heat face Magic in Orlando
The reeling Heat run into Dwight Howard.

Carter likely out vs. Heat with sprain
Orlando Magic shooting guard Vince Carter is not expected to play against the Miami Heat on Wednesday night after he sprained his left knee.

Knee puts Vince Carter of Orlando Magic in doubt against Miami Heat
Magic shooting guard Vince Carter is not expected to play against the Miami Heat on Wednesday night after he sprained his left knee.

Spurs surprise many with 12-1 start (AP)

San Antonio Spurs ' Tony Parker (9), of France, drives around  Orlando Magic 's Jameer Nelson , right, during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Nov. 22, 2010 in San Antonio.

Tony Parker's private life has been splashed across tabloids after splitting from his TV star wife. Tim Duncan is playing the fewest minutes of his career and coach Gregg Popovich's big summer addition can't find his way off the bench yet. Yet here are the San Antonio Spurs, back atop the NBA.




Vince Carter a game-time decision for Orlando Magic
Orlando Magic shooting guard Vince Carter will be a game-time decision against the Miami Heat on Wednesday night after he sprained his left knee.

Magic's Carter might not play vs. Heat (AP)
Orlando Magic shooting guard Vince Carter will be a game-time decision against the Miami Heat on Wednesday night after he sprained his left knee. The Magic say an MRI on Carter's left knee was negative and he was diagnosed with a sprain. Orlando did not practice Tuesday. Carter was injured in the Magic's 106-97 loss at San Antonio on Monday night.

Going to 11: Spurs top Magic, continue hot start
Tony Parker had 24 points and 10 assists to help the San Antonio Spurs to their 11th straight win with a 106-97 victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Spurs beat Magic for 11th straight win (AP)

San Antonio Spurs ' Manu Ginobili (20), of Argentina, shoots over  Orlando Magic 's Marcin Gortat , of Poland, left, during the second quarter of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Nov. 22, 2010 in San Antonio.

Tony Parker had 24 points and 10 assists to help the San Antonio Spurs to their 11th straight win with a 106-97 victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night. Manu Ginobili had 25 points for the Spurs, who faced their stiffest test yet put prevailed late for an NBA-best record of 12-1. Dwight Howard had 26 points and 18 rebounds for the East-leading Magic, whose own winning streak ended at four.




Spurs' winning streak grows to 11
Tony Parker had 24 points and 10 assists to help the San Antonio Spurs to their 11th straight win with a 106-97 victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night.

Howard overcomes slow start, Magic win (AP)

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy disputes a call in second-half NBA basketball game action against the Indiana Pacers at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2010. Orlando won 90-86.

Jameer Nelson converted a go-ahead three-point play with 33 second left, leading Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic to a 90-86 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night. Howard scored 19 of his 25 points in the second half, helping Orlando recover from a 52-49 halftime deficit. Rashard Lewis made five 3-pointers and finished with 21 points.




Howard's 14-point fourth lifts Magic over Pacers
Dwight Howard overcame a slow start to score 25 points, Jameer Nelson converted the go-ahead three-point play, and the Orlando Magic beat the Indiana Pacers 90-86 on Saturday night.

Howard, Magic spank Suns with Nash out
Jameer Nelson had 15 points and a season-high 12 assists, and the Orlando Magic easily handled a Phoenix Suns team playing without Steve Nash in a 105-89 win on Thursday night.

Magic roll past Nash-less Suns 105-89 (AP)

Phoenix Suns guard Jason Richardson (23), forward Grant Hill , center, and Orlando Magic shooting guard Quentin Richardson (5) fight for a rebound during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Thursday, Nov. 18, 2010.

Jameer Nelson had 15 points and a season-high 12 assists, and the Orlando Magic easily handled a Phoenix Suns team playing without Steve Nash in a 105-89 win on Thursday night. Dwight Howard added 20 points and 12 rebounds, and every starter scored in double digits for the Magic, who built a 32-point lead and blew past the Suns from the opening tip.




Phoenix Suns' Steve Nash sits out vs. Orlando Magic with sore groin
Suns point guard Steve Nash is taking a night off to rest his sore groin.

Magic struggling from 3-point range (AP)

Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson (14) makes a 3-point shot over Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Monday, Nov. 15, 2010. Orlando won 89-72.

The roster shuffling and new offensive schemes the Orlando Magic have experimented with this season have left them without one of their hallmarks. The 3-pointers are beginning to disappear for the Magic -- at least the ones that go in. In the last two years, the Magic set NBA records for most 3-pointers made in a game and season.




Magic smother Grizzlies, pick up sloppy victory
Dwight Howard had 18 points and 14 rebounds, Vince Carter scored 19 points and the Orlando Magic smothered the Memphis Grizzlies defensively for an 89-72 victory Monday night.

Magic's defense smothers Grizzlies 89-72 (AP)

Memphis Grizzlies shooting guard Tony Allen , left, goes up as Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) tries to block the shot during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Monday, Nov. 15, 2010.

Dwight Howard had 18 points and 14 rebounds, Vince Carter scored 19 points and the Orlando Magic smothered the Memphis Grizzlies defensively for an 89-72 victory Monday night. Jameer Nelson added 11 points and nine rebounds as the Magic built a 16-point lead, lost it, then went back ahead by 17 points in the fourth quarter to put away the game.




J.J. Redick of Orlando Magic out with back spasms vs. Memphis Grizzlies
J.J. Redick is sidelined with back spasms and inactive for the Orlando Magic against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Magic G Redick out with back spasms (AP)
J.J. Redick is sidelined with back spasms and inactive for the Orlando Magic against the Memphis Grizzlies. Forward Malik Allen was activated in Redick's place before Monday night's game. Redick had his best year in the NBA last season and was a key contributor in the playoffs. But the former Duke standout is shooting only 12 percent from 3-point range through nine games, averaging 4.4 points...

Nelson nails winner to nudge Magic past Nets
Jameer Nelson made the go-ahead basket with 4.1 seconds left, and the Orlando Magic avoided a third straight loss by beating the New Jersey Nets 91-90 on Saturday night.

Nelson's late basket gets Magic by Nets (AP)

New Jersey Nets center Brook Lopez , right, looks to make a move on Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010 in Newark, N.J.

Jameer Nelson made the go-ahead basket with 4.1 seconds left, and the Orlando Magic avoided a third straight loss by beating the New Jersey Nets 91-90 on Saturday night. Nelson redeemed himself after missing two free throws with 19 seconds to go and Orlando up one. Brook Lopez then made two foul shots to give New Jersey the lead with 11.5 seconds remaining, but Nelson sped down court and tossed in...




Weems' late 3 helps Raptors end slide, tip Magic
Sonny Weems made a 3-pointer with 7.1 seconds left and the Toronto Raptors hit four free throws from there to snap a six-game losing streak by beating the Orlando Magic 110-106 on Friday night.

Raptors beat Magic to end 6-game skid (AP)

Toronto Raptora guard DeMar DeRozan shoots during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic in Orlando, Fla., Friday, Nov. 12, 2010.

Sonny Weems made a 3-pointer with 7.1 seconds left and the Toronto Raptors hit four free throws from there to snap a six-game losing streak by beating the Orlando Magic 110-106 on Friday night. Andrea Bargnani led the Raptors with 27 points, but it was Weems and DeMar DeRozan who made the key plays that ended Toronto's skid.




Weems lifts Raptors past Magic on road
Sonny Weems made a 3-pointer with 7.1 seconds left and the Toronto Raptors hit four free throws from there to snap a six-game losing streak by beating the Orlando Magic 110-106 on Friday night.

Jazz rally from 18 down to stun Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic shooting guard Vince Carter (15) takes a shot in front of Utah Jazz shooting guard Raja Bell (19) and small forward C.J. Miles during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010.

Deron Williams scored 30 points, Paul Millsap added 23 and the Utah Jazz rallied again for a 104-94 victory over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. A night after a 22-point comeback victory in overtime at Miami, the Jazz went down 18 points in the third quarter, but came back to stun Orlando. Al Jefferson had a huge hook over Dwight Howard, and Williams followed with a jumper over Nelson with...




Jazz stun Magic with fourth-quarter rally
Deron Williams scored 30 points, Paul Millsap added 23 and the Utah Jazz rallied again for a 104-94 victory over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night.

Can Jazz, Millsap pull off another stunner in Orlando?


Orlando Magic PG Jameer Nelson sitting out with sprained ankle
Magic point guard Jameer Nelson will sit out Monday with a sprained ankle.

Magic PG Nelson out again vs. Hawks (AP)

Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson (14) goes up for a shot between Dallas Mavericks guard Dominique Jones , left, guard Jose Barea,second from right, of Puerto Rico, and center Brendan Haywood , right, during the second half of a preseason NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2010. The Magic won 101-76.

The Orlando Magic will be without starting point guard Jameer Nelson against Atlanta on Monday night because of a sprained left ankle. Nelson was hurt late in Friday's win against New Jersey and missed the team's win at Charlotte on Friday. Chris Duhon will again start in his place, and Jason Williams will serve as the backup.




Magic move to 11-1 in last 12 vs. Hawks (AP)

Orlando Magic point guard Jason Williams (44) and Atlanta Hawks guard Jeff Teague (0) vie for a rebound during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Monday, Nov. 8, 2010. Orlando won 93-89.

New season. New coach. New venue. Same old result: The Atlanta Hawks still can't beat the Orlando Magic. Dwight Howard had 27 points and 11 rebounds, and the Magic extended their recent reign over the Hawks with a 93-89 victory Monday night in a rematch of last season's lopsided Eastern Conference semifinal.




Howard, Magic hand Hawks second straight loss
Dwight Howard had 27 points and 11 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic continue their recent reign over the Atlanta Hawks with a 93-89 victory Monday night in a rematch of last season's lopsided Eastern Conference semifinal.

Howard, Magic hang on to beat Hawks
Dwight Howard had 27 points and 11 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic continue their recent reign over the Atlanta Hawks with a 93-89 victory Monday night in a rematch of last season's lopsided Eastern Conference semifinal.

Hawks face their nemesis in Orlando


Howard scores 22 as Magic hold off Bobcats
Dwight Howard had 22 points and eight rebounds, Rashard Lewis scored 22 points and the Orlando Magic withstood Charlotte's furious comeback attempt to beat the slumping Bobcats 91-88 on Saturday night.

Short-handed Magic hold off Bobcats (AP)

Recording artist Nelly, center, looks on in the first half of an NBA basketball game between the Charlotte Bobcats and the Orlando Magic in Charlotte, N.C., Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010.

Dwight Howard had 22 points and eight rebounds, Rashard Lewis scored 22 points and the Orlando Magic withstood Charlotte's furious comeback attempt to beat the slumping Bobcats 91-88 on Saturday night. The Magic overcame Jameer Nelson sitting out with a sprained ankle and Vince Carter leaving the game with an injury late for their first road win of the season in a rematch of last season's...




Magic G Jameer Nelson sidelined with sprained ankle
The Orlando Magic will be without starting point guard Jameer Nelson against Charlotte because of a sprained left ankle.

Magic G Nelson out with sprained ankle (AP)
The Orlando Magic will be without starting point guard Jameer Nelson against Charlotte because of a sprained left ankle. Nelson was hurt late in Friday's win against New Jersey. He had a season-high 20 points and six assists in the game. Nelson made the trip to Charlotte, but was ruled out before the team arrived at the arena Saturday.

Howard's 30 and 16 help Magic beat Nets (AP)
Brook Lopez emerged in the New Jersey Nets locker room with a slight bruise under his right eye, a small memory from a night he'd rather soon forget. The mark of Superman, indeed. Dwight Howard had 30 points and 16 rebounds and swarmed Lopez defensively, leading the Orlando Magic to a 105-90 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Friday night.

Howard's 30 and 16 help Magic beat Nets (AP)

Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki , left, of Germany, goes up for a shot in front of Orlando Magic center Marcin Gortat , of Poland, during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2010.

Dwight Howard had 30 points and 16 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic extended their recent dominance over the New Jersey Nets with a 105-90 victory Friday night. Howard finished 9 for 13 shooting to power the Magic to their second straight win since they were routed by Miami last week. The NBA's twice reigning defensive player of the year also gave Brook Lopez fits in one of the worst offensive...




Big first half propels Magic by Wolves (AP)

ORLANDO, FL - NOVEMBER 03:  Vince Carter #15 of the Orlando Magic smiles during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Amway Arena on November 3, 2010 in Orlando, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

Dwight Howard had 18 points, 16 rebounds and eight blocked shots to help the Orlando Magic set a franchise record for most points in the first half in a 128-86 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. Vince Carter had 20 points, Ryan Anderson scored 19 and the Magic shook up the starting lineup to score 78 points in the opening half for an easy win.




Minnesota Timberwolves' Michael Beasley (left hip injury) 'doubtful' to play vs. Orlando Magic
Timberwolves coach Kurt Rambis says Michael Beasley will not start Wednesday night against the Magic and is "doubtful" to play at all because of a left hip injury.

Madison Square Garden asbestos issue cancels New York Knicks-Orlando Magic game
The game between the Knicks and Magic at Madison Square Garden Tuesday has been postponed due to hazardous debris that fell on the court.

Magic-Knicks ppd. for MSG safety issues (AP)
The Orlando Magic-New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden was postponed Tuesday because of safety concerns after debris fell into the arena during overnight cleaning of asbestos-related materials. The work was done by maintenance staff in the attic above the ceiling following the New York Rangers' game.

Magic offense falls flat against high-powered Heat
After weeks of flexing their muscles and dropping the hammer on opponents, the Orlando Magic finally faced a team that fought back, and the results weren't pretty.

Heat roll by Magic 96-70 in home opener (AP)

MIAMI - OCTOBER 29:  Guard Dwyane Wade #3, forward Chris Bosh #1 and forward LeBron James #6 of  the Miami Heat take on the Orlando Magic at American Airlines Arena on October 29, 2010 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)

LeBron James stayed fairly quiet when the Orlando Magic questioned his competitiveness this summer. James and his new team presented an emphatic response Friday night. Dwyane Wade scored 26 points in Miami's home opener, James had 15 points and seven assists and the Heat scored the first 14 points of the second half to turn a close game into a surprisingly one-sided 96-70 victory over the...




Heat roll by Magic 96-70 in home opener (AP)
LeBron James stayed fairly quiet when the Orlando Magic questioned his competitiveness this summer. James and his new team presented an emphatic response Friday night. Dwyane Wade scored 26 points in Miami's home opener, James had 15 points and seven assists and the Heat scored the first 14 points of the second half to turn a close game into a surprisingly one-sided 96-70 victory over the...

Heat scorch Magic in home opener
LeBron James stayed fairly quiet when the Orlando Magic questioned his competitiveness this summer.

Wade leads Heat in Big Three's debut at home
Dwyane Wade scored 26 points in Miami's home opener, LeBron James had 15 points and seven assists and the Heat scored the first 14 points of the second half on the way to a surprisingly one-sided 96-70 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday night.

Magic's Howard releases CD for kids (AP)
Dwight Howard may be the NBA's Superman, but when it comes to making music, he'll admit to having at least one flaw. "I'm not good at rapping, I'll say that," he says. "But singing, I can hold a note. I'm pretty good. If I had to sing in front of a big crowd, I don't think I'd be that shy." There's nothing timid about the Orlando Magic star's...

Magic's Williams to miss game vs. Heat
Jason Williams of the Orlando Magic was suspended one game without pay for making contact with a game official following an ejection, keeping him from Friday night's game against the Miami Heat.

Orlando Magic's Jason Williams suspended for touching referee
Jason Williams of the Orlando Magic has been suspended one game without pay for making contact with a game official following an ejection.

Magic G Williams banned for touching ref (AP)
Jason Williams of the Orlando Magic has been suspended one game without pay for making contact with a game official following an ejection. NBA executive vice president of basketball operations Stu Jackson announced the punishment on Friday, a few hours before the Magic played the Miami Heat. Williams is eligible to return for Orlando's next game Tuesday at New York.

New chapter in Magic-Heat rivalry begins (AP)
This notion of a highly heated Miami-Orlando rivalry is nothing new, though the perceived level of venom between the clubs may be higher than ever. With arenas separated by 235 miles and no shortage of heated moments dotting their history, the clubs -- now two of the NBA's marquee teams and clear title hopefuls -- meet Friday night in Miami's home opener.

Wizards routed by Magic in Wall's debut (AP)

Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson , right, drives around Washington Wizards forward Yi Jianlian , of China, during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010. The Magic won 112-83.

The warmup acts are over. A perfect preseason? Gone. An opening-night blowout? Forgotten. For the Orlando Magic, LeBron James and the new-look Miami Heat await. Dwight Howard had 23 points and 10 rebounds to lift the Magic to an easy 112-83 victory over the Washington Wizards in the debut of No. 1 pick John Wall on Thursday night, giving the NBA's newest arena a grand opening and setting the stage...




Howard leads Magic in rout of Wizards
Dwight Howard had 23 points and 10 rebounds to lift the Orlando Magic to an easy 112-83 victory over the Washington Wizards on Thursday night, giving the NBA's newest arena a grand opening and spoiling No. 1 overall pick John Wall's debut.

Wizards' Wall to meet Howard in debut (AP)
Dwight Howard remembers the hype, drama and expectations surrounding his debut as the No. 1 overall pick. All eyes were on him. So was all the pressure. Pretty much what John Wall feels now. Wall begins a new era for the Washington Wizards on Thursday night, opening the regular season against Howard and the Orlando Magic in a matchup featuring past and present top picks and the opening of the...

Risky business? Court for Miami Heat-Orlando Magic slippery
A slippery court installed over an NHL ice surface severely hampered the Orlando Magic at their shootaround practice before facing the Miami Heat on Friday, prompting Magic coach Stan Van Gundy and guard Vince Carter to question its safety.

Slippery court cancels Magic-Heat game
A slippery court installed over an NHL ice surface forced the cancellation of Friday night's preseason finale between the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat.

Slippery court concern for Heat, Magic (AP)
A slippery court installed over an NHL ice surface severely hampered the Orlando Magic at their shootaround practice before facing the Miami Heat on Friday, prompting Magic coach Stan Van Gundy and guard Vince Carter to question its safety. Arena workers were confident the problems could be solved by game time.

Dallas Mavericks center Tyson Chandler injured thumb in preseason game
Dallas Mavericks center Tyson Chandler needed two stitches to close a cut on right thumb suffered during Wednesday's preseason loss to the Orlando Magic.

Orlando rolls to 21st preseason win in a row
Dwight Howard had 20 points and 13 rebounds to help the Orlando Magic roll to their 21st straight preseason victory, 101-76 over the undermanned Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night.

Magic extend preseason win streak to 21 (AP)

Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson (14) goes up for a shot between Dallas Mavericks guard Dominique Jones , left, guard Jose Barea,second from right, of Puerto Rico, and center Brendan Haywood , right, during the second half of a preseason NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2010. The Magic won 101-76.

Dwight Howard had 20 points and 13 rebounds to help the Orlando Magic roll to their 21st straight preseason victory, 101-76 over the undermanned Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night. Howard was a perfect 7 for 7 shooting and added four blocks, and Vince Carter had 20 points to keep Orlando's incredible -- but otherwise meaningless -- preseason streak alive.




Bass, Howard keep Magic perfect in preseason
Brandon Bass had 17 points and eight rebounds and Dwight Howard added 14 points and 13 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 102-73 preseason victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night.

Magic rip Hawks, now 6-0 in preseason (AP)

Orlando Magic center Marcin Gortat (13) goes to the basket as Atlanta Hawks center Jason Collins (34) defends in the fourth quarter of a preseason NBA basketball game Monday, Oct. 18, 2010, in Atlanta.

Brandon Bass had 17 points and eight rebounds and Dwight Howard added 14 points and 13 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 102-73 preseason victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night. Jameer Nelson scored 17 points for the Magic (6-0), while Vince Carter had 13 points and three rebounds. "I think our defense right now is far ahead of our offense," Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said.




Magic extend preseason win streak to 19 (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard , center, dunks over Chicago Bulls forward Kurt Thomas , below, and Keith Bogans , right, during the second half of a preseason NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 16, 2010. The Magic won 105-67.

If the preseason really counted for something, the Orlando Magic would be NBA champions and Vince Carter would be Mr. October. The reality is this is tuneup time, even if the Magic don't seem to need it. Carter scored all of his 21 points in the first half and the Magic rolled past another opponent for their 19th straight preseason win, 105-67 over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night.




Magic extend preseason win streak to 19 (AP)
Vince Carter scored all of his 21 points in the first half and the Orlando Magic rolled past another preseason opponent, 105-67 over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. Dwight Howard had 15 points and 11 rebounds, and J.J. Redick scored 16 points to help the Magic (5-0) cruise to their 19th straight preseason victory.

Lights malfunction in Magic's new arena (AP)
The Orlando Magic shot lights out in the home opener in their new arena. For an encore, they did it before the game started this time. A malfunction with the main lights in the Amway Center delayed the start of Orlando's preseason game against the Charlotte Bobcats about 25 minutes Thursday night.

Magic win despite resting starters (AP)

Orlando Magic guard J.J. Redick , right, passes the ball after driving past Charlotte Bobcats guard Javaris Crittenton during the second half of a preseason NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Thursday, Oct. 14, 2010. The Magic won 86-73.

Brandon Bass had 16 points and nine rebounds, Quentin Richardson scored 15 and the Orlando Magic beat the Charlotte Bobcats 86-73 in a preseason game Thursday night despite playing mostly reserves. J.J. Redick and Mickael Pietrus added 12 points apiece to help Orlando cruise to its 18th straight preseason victory.




Orlando Magic give Dwight Howard, Vince Carter, Rashard Lewis night off
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy decided to rest All-Star center Dwight Howard and two other starters for Thursday night's preseason game against the Bobcats. A team spokesman said Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis also were given the night off.

Magic's Howard, Carter, Lewis sit out (AP)
Even Superman gets a day off. Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy decided to rest All-Star center Dwight Howard and two other starters for Thursday night's preseason game against the Charlotte Bobcats. A team spokesman said Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis also were given the night off. Howard has been one of the NBA's most durable players and the Magic want to keep it that way.

Hawks hope standing pat enough (AP)
LeBron and Chris have joined D-Wade in Miami. Shaq's now in Boston, Amare's taken over New York and Carlos has moved to Chicago. The Atlanta Hawks? Pretty much the same ol' team. That's not necessarily a bad thing. After all, the Hawks finished third in the Eastern Conference last season behind Cleveland and Orlando.

Magic open new arena, rip Hornets 135-81 (AP)

Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy shouts out instructions center Emeka during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Hornets in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Oct. 10, 2010.

Rashard Lewis had 23 points, Dwight Howard had 12 points and 11 rebounds and the Orlando Magic opened their new arena in style with a 135-81 rout of the New Orleans Hornets on Sunday night. Orlando built a big lead from the start to kick off an early celebration that was more than a decade in the making.




Carter makes 6 3s as Magic top Pacers (AP)

Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy looks on during the fourth quarter of an NBA preseason basketball game against the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis, Friday, Oct. 8, 2010.  Orlando  won 93-86.

Vince Carter scored 25 points, and the Orlando Magic beat the Indiana Pacers 93-86 in preseason action on Friday night. Carter made 6-of-8 3-pointers for Orlando (2-0). Ryan Anderson had 10 points and 16 rebounds, and Dwight Howard added 10 points and 10 boards, despite getting into early foul trouble.




Rockets' Yao plays 12 minutes in return (AP)
Orlando's star center was as good as ever. It's too soon to tell how Houston's will be after an extended absence. Dwight Howard had 19 points and 12 rebounds, Vince Carter added 14 points and the Orlando Magic beat the Houston Rockets 97-88 in their preseason opener on Tuesday night in a game where Yao Ming played just 12 minutes Yao played eight minutes in the first quarter and four in...

Orlando Magic exercise option on forward Ryan Anderson for 2011-12
The Orlando Magic have decided to keep promising young forward Ryan Anderson around a little longer.

Magic exercise option on PF Anderson (AP)
The Orlando Magic have decided to keep promising young forward Ryan Anderson around a little longer. The Magic announced Friday they were exercising their option on Anderson's contract that will keep him in Orlando through next season. Anderson was traded from New Jersey last year in the blockbuster deal that brought Vince Carter to the Magic.

Magic exercise option on F Anderson
The Orlando Magic have decided to keep promising young forward Ryan Anderson around a little longer.

Magic's Carter looks to bounce back (AP)
If Vince Carter didn't have enough incentive to redeem his poor performance in the Eastern Conference finals, the message came through loud and clear from his Orlando Magic teammates during a meeting at the start of training camp. Simply put, they said, he must be better. "Vince is easy at saying all of the right things, but I don't particularly care what he says," Magic president...

Orlando Magic guard Jason Williams out 4 weeks after knee surgery
Orlando Magic point guard Jason Williams will have arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Thursday and will miss about four weeks.

Magic PG Williams to miss about 4 weeks (AP)
Orlando Magic point guard Jason Williams will have arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Thursday and will miss about four weeks. Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says Williams' knee has been problematic for weeks and was injured again during training camp this week. An MRI showed loose cartilage but no tear.

Van Gundy tries to connect with Magic (AP)
Stan Van Gundy took a few extra trips this summer. They weren't vacations to exotic destinations with five-star accommodations. The Orlando Magic coach just wanted to improve communication with players, so he traveled to some of their hometowns -- and in typical Van Gundy fashion. On one occasion this summer, Van Gundy flew to Atlanta to have lunch with Dwight Howard.

Orlando Magic plan to offer Dwight Howard contract extension this summer
The Magic plan to offer Dwight Howard a contract extension in the summer of 2011, a year before he can opt for free agency, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Report: Magic to offer Howard extension after season
The Orlando Magic will attempt to sign All-Star center Dwight Howard to a contract extension next summer in a bid to prevent him from becoming a free agent, the Orlando Sentinel reported Tuesday.

Magic tinkering with different looks (AP)
The typical makeup of a power forward for most NBA teams is a big and bulky body, a player with the frame to bang around the basket and perhaps toss in a mid-range jumper. Then there's Rashard Lewis and the Orlando Magic. A natural small forward, Lewis has spent the past three seasons in Orlando mostly starting at power forward.

Magic hope to keep Howard in Orlando
The Orlando Magic don't want to get LeBron-ed by Dwight Howard. The team hopes to sign its All-Star center to a contract extension long before he is eligible to become a free agent in 2012, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Magic want to take focus away from Heat (AP)
Stan Van Gundy glanced around at the dozens of reporters milling around the Orlando Magic's new arena Monday, jokingly wondering why everybody wasn't in Miami waiting for LeBron James to speak. "They're the story," the Magic coach said, chuckling. "I'm surprised there were enough media left for you guys to get here." Whether the Magic like it or not, the NBA...

New jerseys meant to absorb less sweat (AP)
Dwight Howard proudly recalls making a 3-pointer during the last All-Star game. It must have been the shirt. The NBA is rolling out new uniforms, a lighter model tested during the All-Star game, and Howard says they'll improve his performance. "It's just like the shoes," the Orlando Magic center said.

Magic president Smith tired of Heat talk (AP)
Orlando Magic president of basketball operations Otis Smith has a new title and a new office in a new arena -- easily the biggest offseason moves he made. Quite a contrast considering it was a wild summer for so many other NBA teams. Smith, formerly the general manager but still charged with overseeing the roster, is counting on improvement through continuity this season.

Orlando Magic sign Malik Allen to fill out roster
The Orlando Magic have signed free agent forward Malik Allen, bringing their training camp roster to 15 players.

F Malik Allen signs with Magic (AP)
The Orlando Magic have signed free agent forward Malik Allen, bringing their training camp roster to 15 players. The Magic announced the signing Thursday. The 32-year-old Allen played 51 games for the Denver Nuggets last season. He has averaged five points and nearly three rebounds per game in nine NBA seasons.

Howard grants wish of dying woman
Kay Kellogg had one wish before cancer claims her life -- to meet Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard. He granted it in a big way.

Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard to star in NBA/Shanghai film
Denver's Carmelo Anthony and Orlando's Dwight Howard will star in a basketball film with an award-winning Chinese director titled "Amazing."

Anthony, Howard to star in Shanghai film (AP)
Denver's Carmelo Anthony and Orlando's Dwight Howard will star in a basketball film with an award-winning Chinese director titled "Amazing." The NBA and Shanghai Film Group announced the joint production effort on Tuesday, calling it "the first NBA-themed motion picture outside of North America." The filming will take place in New York, Beijing and Shanghai through...

Anthony, Howard to star in 'Amazing'
Denver's Carmelo Anthony and Orlando's Dwight Howard will star in a basketball film with an award-winning Chinese director titled ''Amazing.''

Adonal Foyle of Orlando Magic retires from NBA after 13 seasons
Adonal Foyle is ending his NBA playing career after 13 seasons.

Foyle retires from NBA after 13 seasons (AP)
Adonal Foyle is ending his NBA playing career after 13 seasons. The 35-year-old center announced his retirement Monday after playing for the Orlando Magic the last three seasons. Foyle spent his first 10 years with the Golden State Warriors, and had a brief midseason stint with Memphis in 2009. Foyle is expected to resign from his position as first vice president of the National Basketball Players...

Orlando Magic sign rookie ex-UConn forward Stanley Robinson
The Orlando Magic have signed rookie forward Stanley Robinson.

Magic sign 2nd-round pick Robinson (AP)
The Orlando Magic have signed rookie forward Stanley Robinson. The team made the announcement Monday. Robinson was selected by Orlando with the 59th overall pick in this year's NBA draft. The former Connecticut forward averaged 5.4 points and 5.2 rebounds per game on the Magic's summer league team.

Report: Free agent guard Jason Williams, Orlando Magic agree to deal
A person familiar with the decision says the Orlando Magic have agreed to a new deal with free agent point guard Jason Williams.

Magic bringing back PG Williams (AP)
A person familiar with the decision says the Orlando Magic have agreed to a new deal with free agent point guard Jason Williams. The person spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the contract was still being completed Tuesday. Williams spent last season with the Magic after taking a year off for personal reasons.

Report: Magic, Williams agree to deal
A person familiar with the decision says the Orlando Magic have agreed to a new deal with free agent point guard Jason Williams.

Sources: Chris Paul's preferred destination is now Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic have replaced the New York Knicks as the top team on Chris Paul's wish list of destinations, according to league sources.

Lakers sign veteran swingman Barnes (AP)
Matt Barnes is going back to Los Angeles, this time to join the two-time defending NBA champion Lakers. The Lakers announced Thursday they had signed the free-agent forward. Terms were not disclosed. Barnes, a UCLA product who started 58 games last season for Orlando, said earlier this week on his Twitter page that he was headed to Toronto.

Pacers sign 2nd-round pick Stephenson (AP)
The Indiana Pacers have signed second-round draft pick Lance Stephenson to a multiyear contract. The Pacers made the announcement Thursday, but did not disclose the terms of the deal. Stephenson was the 2010 Big East Rookie of the Year at Cincinnati this past season. The 6-foot-5 guard was the Pacers' second-leading scorer in the Orlando summer league at nearly 15 points per game, and led the...

Barnes says he will join Raptors (AP)
Free-agent forward Matt Barnes says he is headed for Toronto. Barnes wrote on his Twitter page Monday that he has decided to play for the Raptors next season. He also thanked fans in Orlando, where he played last season. Barnes started 58 games for the Magic, helping them reach the Eastern Conference finals.

Magic match Bulls' offer sheet to retain Redick
Orlando Magic general manager Otis Smith said Friday that the team will retain J.J. Redick. The Magic matched a $19 million, three-year offer sheet that the Chicago Bulls made for Redick.

Orlando Magic match J.J. Redick 3-year offer sheet by Chicago Bulls
Orlando Magic general manager Otis Smith said Friday that the team will retain J.J. Redick.

Reports: The Orlando Magic have matched the Chicago Bulls' offer to J.J. Redick
According to reports, J.J. Redick will remain with the Orlando Magic.

Magic agree to deal with Quentin Richardson
A person familiar with the negotiations says the Orlando Magic have agreed to a deal with free agent shooting guard Quentin Richardson.

Report: Orlando Magic agree to deal with Quentin Richardson
A person familiar with the negotiations says the Orlando Magic have agreed to a deal with free agent Quentin Richardson.

Magic agree with Quentin Richardson (AP)
A person familiar with the negotiations says the Orlando Magic have agreed to a deal with free agent Quentin Richardson. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal had not been officially announced. Terms of the contract were not immediately known. Richardson's signing means the Magic are likely parting ways with free agent small forward Matt Barnes.

Magic to consider matching Redick offer (AP)
Orlando Magic general manager Otis Smith plans to take "the full seven days" to decide whether to match an offer sheet the Chicago Bulls made for restricted free agent J.J. Redick. Smith said Saturday that Redick is a "part of our team" and Orlando would "like to keep him." The Bulls reportedly signed Redick to a $19 million, three-year offer sheet.

A report indicates the Orlando Magic anticipate matching the Chicago Bulls' offer to J.J. Redick.
A report indicates the Orlando Magic anticipate matching the Bulls' offer to shooting guard J.J. Redick.

Magic GM Smith rips James' decision (AP)
A few welcoming shots at LeBron James is heating up the usually tame Sunshine State rivalry. Orlando Magic general manager Otis Smith said Friday he was surprised James went to Miami because he thought the two-time MVP was "more of a competitor." He said the "great ones" do it on their own and "usually stay in one location." It was rare public criticism from the...

Orlando Magic general manager Otis Smith 'thought LeBron James more of a competitor'
Magic general manager Otis Smith is adding a little more sizzle to the Sunshine State rivalry with some welcoming shots at LeBron James.

Chris Duhon says he's eager for fresh start with Magic
It was only fitting Chris Duhon officially joined the Orlando Magic on Thursday, the same day his former team has spent two-plus seasons preparing to sign a free agent.

Magic reach deal with Duhon
The Orlando Magic tried to sign Chris Duhon in free agency two years ago only to watch him go to New York.

Magic, PG Duhon agree to 4 years, $15M (AP)
The agent for Chris Duhon says the point guard has reached an agreement with the Orlando Magic for a $15 million, four-year deal. Agent Kevin Bradbury told The Associated Press on Tuesday the chance to play for a championship contender was enough to sway Duhon to the Magic. Duhon will backup starter Jameer Nelson.

Agent: Chris Duhon leaving New York Knicks to sign with Orlando Magic
Free agent point guard Chris Duhon agreed to a four year, $15 million dollar contract with the Orlando Magic, his agent, Kevin Bradbury, told ESPN.com's Chad Ford.

Magic take Stanley Robinson at 59 - Stanley Robinson (F) Orlando Magic
The Magic took forward Stanley Robinson with the second-to-last pick in the draft.

New Hornets coach plans up-tempo style
There was a twinkle in Monty Williams' eyes as he recalled all the times Doc Rivers yelled at him when they were together with the Orlando Magic. When Williams was introduced as the ninth head coach of the New Orleans Hornets on Tuesday, he admitted the current Boston Celtics coach was right about one thing.

Howard may not play for US this summer (AP)
Dwight Howard might not play for the U.S. at this summer's world championships. Orlando's All-Star center and the NBA's two-time defending defensive player of the year says he hasn't decided if he will play. It was the first time Howard has publicly wavered about playing in this summer's world championships.

2010 NBA free agents: Matt Barnes of Orlando Magic to opt out of deal, test market
Forward Matt Barnes says he will opt out of the final year of his contract with the Orlando Magic to become a free agent.

Magic F Barnes to opt out of contract (AP)
Forward Matt Barnes says he will opt out of the final year of his contract with the Orlando Magic to become a free agent. Barnes had said for months he would likely make the move, hoping to get a long-term deal to return to Orlando. He made his intentions official Monday after the team's end-of-season meeting.

Orlando Magic GM not planning for another roster overhaul
Magic general manager Otis Smith wants to be clear: He's not looking to overhaul the roster again. Unless he does.

Magic GM says another overhaul unlikely (AP)
Magic general manager Otis Smith wants to be clear: He's not looking to overhaul the roster again. Unless he does. Smith said Monday he doesn't expect any major moves this offseason, even after failing to return to the NBA finals. He believes Orlando already has the roster to win its first championship.

Barnes says he'll opt out of Magic deal
Forward Matt Barnes says he will opt out of the final year of his contract with the Orlando Magic to become a free agent.

Magic offseason to be tougher than most (AP)
The new arena will have no championship coronation. The only thing following the Orlando Magic to the Amway Center next season will be memories of coming close. That elusive NBA title banner will not be raised on opening night. Again. A major overhaul wasn't enough to get Orlando back to the NBA finals, much less win a championship, and now the Magic will have to hope their core is enough to stay...

Celts finish off Magic in 6 to win East (AP)
The NBA's most-decorated team avoided the biggest playoff collapse in league history and earned a chance to hang an unprecedented 18th championship banner from the rafters. Paul Pierce had 31 points and 13 rebounds, and little-used backup Nate Robinson gave the Celtics a boost with 13 second-quarter points as Boston beat the Orlando Magic 96-84 on Friday night, earning a chance to play for a...

Magic fail to rally from 3 games down (AP)
No historic comeback for the Orlando Magic, no second straight trip to the NBA finals. Dwight Howard and his underachieving teammates flopped in their bid to become the league's first team to overcome a 3-0 deficit when the Boston Celtics battered them 96-84 Friday night to clinch the Eastern Conference finals in six games.

Davis, Wallace available for Game 6 (AP)
Boston's Glen "Big Baby" Davis is back in uniform for Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Magic. Celtics coach Doc Rivers says Davis can play Friday night against Orlando. The Boston forward blacked out on the court with a concussion in Game 5 on Wednesday by an inadvertent elbow from Magic center Dwight Howard.

2010 NBA playoffs: Kendrick Perkins eligible for the Boston Celtics' Game 6 against the Orlando Magic after technical foul rescinded
Kendrick Perkins eligible for Game 6 after a technical foul was rescinded.

NBA rescinds Perkins 'T'; eligible to play in Game 6 against Magic
Boston's Kendrick Perkins will be eligible to play in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Orlando Magic.

Celtics' Perkins can play in Game 6 (AP)
Boston's Kendrick Perkins will be eligible to play in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Orlando Magic. The NBA said Thursday that one of the two technical fouls Perkins received in Game 5 was rescinded. That means Perkins hasn't hit the mark of seven technicals in the playoffs that would lead to an automatic suspension.

2010 NBA playoffs: Rashard Lewis of Orlando Magic says he's been playing with viral infection
Orlando Magic forward Rashard Lewis says he has been playing with a viral infection during the Eastern Conference finals.

Magic F Lewis has viral infection (AP)
Maybe this is why Orlando Magic forward Rashard Lewis has been struggling in the Eastern Conference finals: He's been playing with a viral infection. Lewis says he's been sick the "whole series" against the Boston Celtics. "Overall it effects you," he said after Orlando's shootaround Wednesday.

Magic get within 3-2, top Celtics 113-92 (AP)
Not ready to go home just yet, the only place the Orlando Magic are headed is back to Boston. Halfway to history. Taking another step toward overcoming an improbable 3-0 series deficit, Dwight Howard had 21 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Magic to a 113-92 victory over the Celtics on Wednesday night in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals.

Celtics C Davis leaves with concussion (AP)
Boston center Glen Davis was diagnosed with a concussion after being shaken up late in the third quarter of Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals, needing to be held up by referee Joey Crawford to keep from falling. Davis was struck in face by Orlando center Dwight Howard's elbow, tumbling to the court as play went the other way.

Celtics clash with Magic in Game 5
Can the Celtics seize the East title in Orlando?

Magic shoot down Celtics, force Game 6
Orlando scorches the nets and forces a Game 6.

Dwight Howard's Game 4 foul on Kevin Garnett upgraded to flagrant
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard's foul on Kevin Garnett in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals has been upgraded to a flagrant-one foul.

Howard's foul on Garnett now flagrant-1 (AP)
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard's foul on Kevin Garnett in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals has been upgraded to a flagrant-one foul. The NBA made the announcement Wednesday. Howard grabbed a rebound with 6:25 remaining in the third quarter and swung his elbow, knocking Garnett in the face.

Magic F Lewis playing with viral infection
Maybe this is why Orlando Magic forward Rashard Lewis has been struggling in the Eastern Conference finals: He's been playing with a viral infection.

Magic hold on in OT to avoid Celtics sweep
Jameer Nelson made back-to-back 3-pointers in overtime, Dwight Howard had 32 points and 16 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic beat the Boston Celtics 96-92 on Monday night to avoid a four-game sweep in the Eastern Conference finals.

Celtics stars falter in Game 4 loss (AP)
Rajon Rondo had one of his worst game of the playoffs. Kevin Garnett threw away a pass with 43 seconds left. Paul Pierce missed two 3-pointers after that. The Boston Celtics are returning to Orlando for a game they didn't want to play because three of their best players in the Eastern Conference finals faltered at critical moments.

Magic win at Boston in OT to avoid sweep (AP)
Put away the brooms. Hold off on those "Beat L.A!" chants. The Boston Celtics still have some work to do before they can play for their second NBA title in three years. Jameer Nelson made back-to-back 3-pointers in overtime, Dwight Howard had 32 points and 16 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic beat the Celtics 96-92 on Monday night to avoid a four-game sweep in the Eastern Conference finals.

Battered Magic on brink of elimination (AP)
From start to finish, the Orlando Magic were dominated by the Boston Celtics. It happened in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals Saturday night. And it can happen for the entire series if the Celtics complete a sweep Monday night. The team that rolled through the first two rounds against Charlotte and Atlanta without a loss was handed a 94-71 beating by the fiercely determined and energetic...

Celtics embarrass Magic to command 3-0 lead
Backup Glen "Big Baby" Davis scored 17 points and Rajon Rondo added 11 points and 12 assists on Saturday night to lead the Celtics to a 94-71 victory over the Orlando Magic and a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven East finals.

Celtics rip Magic, take 3-0 series lead (AP)
The Boston Celtics moved a win away from their second NBA finals trip in three years, and the defending Eastern Conference champions barely put up a fight. Backup Glen "Big Baby" Davis scored 17 points and Rajon Rondo added 11 points and 12 assists on Saturday night to lead the Celtics to a 94-71 victory over the Orlando Magic and a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven East finals.

2010 NBA Playoffs: Boston Celtics' Kevin Garnett knocks down Orlando Magic's Stan Van Gundy
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy knows what a hit from Kevin Garnett feels like.

Celtics looking to end home woes (AP)
The original Boston Garden is long gone, and so is the fear in opponents' eyes when they play the Celtics on their home floor. So don't expect the Orlando Magic to be too intimidated when they arrive for Games 3 and 4 of the best-of-seven Eastern Conference finals. "We've won there before, and there's no reason we can't do it again," forward Rashard Lewis said Friday...

Lewis' struggles key to Magic's 0-2 hole (AP)
There might always be pressure from the lucrative contract Rashard Lewis signed with the Orlando Magic, and his statistics through two games in the Eastern Conference finals aren't making that go away. Eleven points. Four field goals. About $18.8 million this season. The highest paid member of the Magic, Lewis' series slump is a big reason why the Magic are in an 0-2 hole entering Game 3 at...

DeRosa suspended for throwing ball at fan during Game 2
Referee Joe DeRosa has been suspended without pay for throwing a ball at a fan during halftime of an NBA playoff game in Orlando.

Referee Joe DeRosa suspended one game for throwing ball at fan
Referee Joe DeRosa has been suspended without pay for throwing a ball at a fan during halftime of an NBA playoff game in Orlando.

Ref suspended for throwing ball at fan (AP)
Referee Joe DeRosa has been suspended without pay for throwing a ball at a fan during halftime of an NBA playoff game in Orlando. DeRosa will miss the next game he would have been scheduled to work. At halftime of Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between Orlando and Boston, DeRosa was walking to the scorer's table to get the warm-up jackets for his crew.

Celtics guarding against overconfidence (AP)
Two wins away from the NBA finals, the Boston Celtics have plenty of reasons for confidence. But overconfidence? Don't count on it, no matter what Paul Pierce said. Before leaving the court after Boston took a 2-0 lead over the Orlando Magic with a 95-92 win on Tuesday night, Pierce said in a live 60-second television interview that the Celtics were coming home to close it out.

Wait for free agency is on in NBA (AP)
Doc Rivers knows his Boston Celtics aren't the NBA's biggest story right now. Take a back seat, Celtics, despite being on the cusp of another trip to the NBA finals. Same for you, defending champ Lakers. The Magic and Suns, well, they're basketball afterthoughts right now as well. Unless you're in Los Angeles, Boston, Orlando or Phoenix, the NBA's final four might almost be like a...

NBA reviewing spat between fan, ref
The NBA is investigating an incident between referee Joe DeRosa and a fan at halftime of Tuesday's Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between Orlando and Boston.

NBA looking into incident between referee Joe DeRosa and fan
The NBA is investigating an incident between referee Joe DeRosa and a fan at halftime of Tuesday's Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between Orlando and Boston.

Pierce's Twitter boast a hack job?
In the hours after a Game 2 win over Orlando, Paul Pierce's Twitter account lit up with a boast -- "Anybody got a BROOM?" Except the Celtics star's reps are denying he ever posted it.

Pierce, team defense carrying Celtics (AP)
Freed from the burden of trying to guard LeBron James, Paul Pierce is back to his high-scoring ways. That plus tenacious team defense have the Boston Celtics rolling in the Eastern Conference finals. They swept the first two games at the home of the Orlando Magic and now have time to rest their old bodies before Game 3 on Saturday night in Boston.

Magic's dream season in peril (AP)
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy slipped into his bed early Wednesday morning and started watching film, figuring he'd doze off quickly. It never happened. "I thought that, OK, I'll get sleepy watching it and then I'll go to bed and get up and finish it in the morning," he said. "Your mind starts racing, so you don't wind down." Orlando's play lately tends to have...

Daniels' stepfather arrested, subdued with stun gun during Game 2
The stepfather of Boston Celtics guard Marquis Daniels was arrested and subdued with a stun gun during Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Orlando Magic.

Daniels' stepfather arrested at Game 2 (AP)
The stepfather of Boston Celtics guard Marquis Daniels was arrested and subdued with a stun gun during Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Orlando Magic. The Orlando police report shows 55-year-old Willie L. Buie was charged with resisting arrest with violence during Tuesday night's game.

2010 NBA Playoffs: Dwight Howard of Orlando Magic won't be suspended for Game 3 over flagrant foul
The NBA will not suspend Orlando's Dwight Howard for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals for his flagrant foul in Game 2.

2010 NBA Playoffs: Paul Pierce denies tweeting about sweeping Orlando Magic
Paul Pierce denies tweet that suggested a Celtics sweep of the Magic.

Magic's frustration evident in loss (AP)
They lost their cool, then lost the game. And if that wasn't bad enough, the Orlando Magic might have just lost any realistic hope of returning to the NBA finals. With frustration evident and the season very possibly slipping away, the Magic lost Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals to the Boston Celtics 95-92 on Tuesday night, falling behind 2-0 in the best-of-seven series and putting...

NBA looking into incident between referee Joe DeRosa and fan
The NBA is investigating an incident between referee Joe DeRosa and a fan at halftime of Tuesday's Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between Orlando and Boston.

Celtics hold off Magic, take 2-0 lead (AP)
The Boston Celtics might just roll back to the NBA finals if they keep this up. Paul Pierce scored 28 points, Rajon Rondo had 25 and the Boston Celtics again avoided a late collapse to take a commanding lead in the Eastern Conference finals with a 95-92 victory over the Orlando Magic in Game 2 on Tuesday night.

Celtics again escape collapse to put away Magic
Paul Pierce scored 28 points, Rajon Rondo had 25 and the Boston Celtics again avoided a late collapse to take a commanding lead in the Eastern Conference finals with a 95-92 victory over the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night.

Celtics play Magic in Game 2
KG and the Celtics try for another win in Orlando.

Celtics leave Orlando with 2-0 lead
Rondo and the Celtics seize command with second win in Orlando.

Slow start costs Orlando Magic dearly in Game 1 of Eastern Conference finals
Unbeatable in the first two rounds of the playoffs, the Orlando Magic apparently lost their rhythm somewhere before the start of the Eastern Conference finals.

Celtics hold off Magic rally, win Game 1 (AP)
The Orlando Magic finally met their match in the playoffs. Ray Allen scored 25 points, Paul Pierce had 22 and the Boston Celtics used smothering defense to beat the Magic 92-88 on Sunday in the Eastern Conference finals opener. Rasheed Wallace added 13 points as the Celtics built a 20-point lead, then held on late to snap Orlando's 14-game winning streak.

Magic start slow in first playoff loss (AP)
Unbeatable in the first two rounds of the playoffs, the Orlando Magic apparently lost their rhythm somewhere before the start of the Eastern Conference finals. Just like that, their road back to the NBA finals has gotten considerably tougher. Showing the rust from nearly a week off -- or from barely being challenged by Charlotte and Atlanta in the first two postseason rounds -- the Magic never...

Celtics try to give Magic the Cavs treatment
Boston bounced Cleveland, but Orlando has been perfect in playoffs

Celtics hand Magic first loss of playoffs
Orlando's first postseason's loss is a doozy as the Celtics go wire to wire.

Magic's Barnes to start Game 1 despite ailing back
Orlando Magic forward Matt Barnes will start against the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals despite recent back spasms.

2010 NBA Playoffs: Matt Barnes of Orlando Magic to start vs. Boston Celtics despite back spasms
Orlando Magic forward Matt Barnes will start against the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals despite recent back spasms.

Healthy Celts face playoff-perfect Magic (AP)
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy was watching Boston blow past Cleveland in the last round and thought it was some sort of replay from the Celtics' 2008 NBA title run. These days, it might be hard to tell. The resurgent Celtics are healthy again and looking to take down the playoff-perfect Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference finals starting Sunday.

Orlando Magic's Matt Barnes expects to start with ailing back
Magic forward Matt Barnes has missed practice because of back spasms but expects to start in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals against Boston.

Hawks fire coach Woodson after 6 seasons (AP)
Mike Woodson is out as coach of the Atlanta Hawks after the team was swept in the second round of the playoffs by the Orlando Magic. General manager Rick Sund said Friday the team will not offer Woodson a new contract. He coached the Hawks for six seasons, and they improved their record every year after managing just 13 wins in his debut.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy rips critics of Cleveland Cavaliers and coach Mike Brown
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy rips critics of Cleveland Cavaliers and coach Mike Brown.

Garnett, Nelson making up for lost time (AP)
They were superstars in suits. Boston's Kevin Garnett and Orlando's Jameer Nelson, sidelined with injuries in last year's second-round playoff series, were diminished to spectators on the bench. The feisty competitors could only make their presence known through words. "We were talking so much trash to each other, it felt like we were in the game," Nelson said.

Lewis overcomes suspension to lead Magic (AP)
It might have seemed a little odd on the eve of the Orlando Magic's training camp when Rashard Lewis delivered a message to teammates about "sacrifice" and "unselfishness." After all, it was Lewis, the Magic's highest-paid player, who was suspended 10 games for testing positive for an elevated testosterone level.

Magic finish off second straight sweep (AP)
Team Sweep has more time to do some housecleaning. Waiting around for their next opponent again, about the only questions the playoff-perfect Orlando Magic face are when and where they'll begin the Eastern Conference finals. Fourteen straight wins -- including 8-0 in the postseason -- have left the Magic beaming with confidence ahead of another lengthy layoff.

Magic sweep away Hawks in fourth straight rout
The Orlando Magic are playing like a team that will settle for nothing less than its first NBA championship.

Magic finish off second straight sweep (AP)
The Orlando Magic are playing like a team that will settle for nothing less than its first NBA championship. Vince Carter scored 22 points to lead another dominating performance by the Magic, which finished off its second straight playoff sweep with a 98-84 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy rips the Chicago Bulls for their handling of Vinny Del Negro
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy rips the Chicago Bulls for their handling of Vinny Del Negro.

Magic blow out Hawks again, lead 3-0 (AP)
Orlando keeps on winning, even when Dwight Howard doesn't stand out. One more Magic victory will finish off the Atlanta Hawks. Rashard Lewis scored 22 points and the backups helped Orlando pull away early with Howard on the bench as the Magic romped to another playoff blowout, moving to the brink of their second straight sweep with a 105-75 victory over the Hawks on Saturday.

Magic manhandle Hawks to close in on sweep
Rashard Lewis scored 22 points and the backups helped Orlando pull away early with Howard on the bench as the Magic romped to another playoff blowout, moving to the brink of their second straight sweep with a 105-75 victory over the Hawks on Saturday.

Hawks need 'perfect game' to beat Magic (AP)
Excuse the Orlando Magic if they have trouble remembering the last time they lost a game. The Magic has gone more than a month since their last defeat, a 112-100 setback at San Antonio on April 2. Orlando has won 12 straight since then, the last six of those in the playoffs. After sweeping Charlotte in the opening round, the Magic has a 2-0 lead on the Hawks as the series shifts to Atlanta for the...

Howard helps Magic go up 2-0 on Hawks (AP)
Maybe all the Orlando Magic needed after a slow start was a slap in the face. Dwight Howard came back from a bloody nose to finish with 29 points and 17 rebounds, and the Magic beat the Atlanta Hawks 112-98 on Thursday night to take a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal series. Vince Carter had 24 points with some big shots late and Rashard Lewis finished with 20 points, leading...

All-NBA Team: LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Dwyane Wade
Two-time league MVP LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers, defensive player of the year Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic and Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers were unanimous selections to the All-NBA First Team announced Thursday.

5 straight all-defensive teams for Kobe (AP)
Kobe Bryant is on the NBA all-defensive first team for the fifth straight year. Boston Celtics guard Rajon Rondo made the first team for the first time, earning the second-most points behind the league's defensive player of the year, Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard. Charlotte Bobcats forward Gerald Wallace also made the team for the first time, with the Cleveland Cavaliers' LeBron James...

Report: NBA All-Star Game to Orlando in 2012
Two people familiar with the decision say the NBA All-Star game will be held in Orlando in 2012 at the Magic's new arena. It will be the second time Orlando has hosted the game.

Report: Orlando gets '12 All-Star game
Two people familiar with the decision say the NBA All-Star game will be held in Orlando in 2012 at the Magic's new arena. It will be the second time Orlando has hosted the game.

Orlando gets 2012 All-Star game
Two people familiar with the decision say the NBA All-Star game will be held in Orlando in 2012 at the Magic's new arena. It will be the second time Orlando has hosted the game.

Orlando to host 2012 All-Star game (AP)
Two people familiar with the decision say the NBA All-Star game will be held in Orlando in 2012 at the Magic's new arena. It will be the second time Orlando has hosted the game. Those familiar with the matter spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press because the league has not released the information.

Magic not rusty in 43-point victory over Hawks
The Orlando Magic showed they could survive with Dwight Howard in chronic foul trouble. With him on the floor, they looked dominant.

Howard helps Magic rout Hawks 114-71 (AP)
The Orlando Magic showed they could survive with Dwight Howard in chronic foul trouble. With him on the floor, they were dominant. Howard had 21 points and 12 rebounds in one of the most crushing playoff wins in Magic history, a 114-71 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference semifinal.

Pietrus hopes to play after spraining ankle
Orlando Magic forward Mickael Pietrus expects to play in the second-round series opener against Atlanta after missing practice with a sprained left ankle.

Orlando Magic forward Mickael Pietrus plans to play with sprained ankle
Orlando Magic forward Mickael Pietrus expects to play in the second-round series opener against Atlanta after missing practice with a sprained left ankle.

Magic F Pietrus expects to play Game 1 (AP)
Orlando Magic forward Mickael Pietrus expects to play in the second-round series opener against Atlanta after missing practice with a sprained left ankle. Pietrus sat out Monday after he sprained the ankle a day earlier in practice. But he said he would play Tuesday night in Game 1 against the Hawks, even if the ankle is a sore.

Rested Magic ready to take on Hawks (AP)
There has been no crowd for the games the Orlando Magic have been playing lately. No officials. No true opponent. Not even a clock. "That's the worst part," guard Vince Carter said. "You wish there was a clock up there and you could see it tick down. It's not. There's not even a score.

Film moves Howard to fix foul problems (AP)
Dwight Howard was looking for some guidance to overcome his chronic foul trouble in the playoffs, and he found it in a movie. The Orlando Magic's All-Star center, an avid film buff, was encouraged by a friend this week to take note of the message in the "Peaceful Warrior." Howard came away from the film inspired, calling it "one of the best experiences I've ever had."...

Magic' Howard fined for criticizing refs (AP)
Even on a day off, Dwight Howard can antagonize officials enough to draw a penalty. The Orlando Magic center was fined $35,000 by the NBA on Wednesday for criticizing officials on his blog, the second time this season he's been penalized for posting such comments. Howard was in chronic foul trouble and constantly complaining about officiating in the Magic's series sweep over Charlotte.

Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard fined $35K for blog comments
Magic center Dwight Howard has been fined $35,000 by the NBA for criticizing officials on his blog.

Magic teammates mock Howard with new nickname
Orlando teammates have coined a new nickname for Magic center Dwight Howard: Foul on You.

Magic sweep Cats despite Howard's foul trouble
Dwight Howard kept collecting fouls, and all the Orlando Magic did was become the first team to advance in the NBA playoffs.

Magic complete sweep of Bobcats (AP)
Dwight Howard kept collecting fouls, and all the Orlando Magic did was become the first team to advance in the NBA playoffs. Vince Carter scored 21 points, Jameer Nelson added 18 and the Magic showcased their depth and pressure shot-making in a 99-90 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats on Monday night to complete a sweep of their first-round series.

Magic complete sweep of Bobcats
Orlando completes the only sweep of the first round.

2010 NBA Playoffs: Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard teased as "Foul On You"
Dwight Howard is taking some teasing from his Orlando Magic teammates, stemming from the four-time All-Star being called for 16 fouls in the first three games against the Charlotte Bobcats, who have used three centers to frustrate him.

Foul-plagued Howard, Magic seek sweep (AP)
Dwight Howard was the last player off the practice court Sunday, then went straight to the locker room for a personalized film session. The featured attraction for the Orlando center: A collage of his elbows and shoves that have put him in permanent foul trouble in the Magic's first-round playoff series against Charlotte.

2010 NBA Playoffs: Orlando Magic's Rashard Lewis playing in Game 3 with sore ankle
Orlando Magic forward Rashard Lewis will play against the Charlotte Bobcats in Game 3 of their playoff series despite a sore left ankle.

Magic F Lewis will play with sore ankle (AP)
Orlando Magic forward Rashard Lewis will play against the Charlotte Bobcats in Game 3 of their playoff series despite a sore left ankle. Coach Stan Van Gundy said before Saturday's game that Lewis was "not feeling great," but was well enough to play. Lewis came down awkwardly on his ankle in Wednesday's win over the Bobcats.

Magic fend off Bobcats for 3-0 lead
With their superstar center stuck on the bench again, the Orlando Magic showed the depth, grit and experience of a championship contender.

Magic hold off Bobcats, take 3-0 lead (AP)
With their superstar center stuck on the bench again, the Orlando Magic showed the depth, grit and experience of a championship contender. Jameer Nelson scored 32 points and the Magic overcame Dwight Howard's continuing foul trouble and a loud, towel-waving crowd in Charlotte's return to the playoff stage to beat the Bobcats 90-86 on Saturday, taking a commanding 3-0 lead in their...

To NBA commissioner Davis Stern's delight, Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy done talking about officials
Magic coach Stan Van Gundy vowed to stop talking about the officials. The declaration left NBA commissioner David Stern with a smile.

Van Gundy vows to stop criticizing refs (AP)
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy vowed to stop talking about the officials. The declaration left NBA commissioner David Stern with a smile. The give-and-take between the two continued before Game 3 of the Magic's first-round playoff series at Charlotte on Saturday. Stern was in attendance two days after the league fined Van Gundy $35,000 for criticizing the referees about the number of fouls...

Orlando Magic's Rashard Lewis: OK for Game 3 despite left ankle
Magic forward Rashard Lewis has a sprained left ankle but says he should be fine for Game 3 against Charlotte on Saturday.

Magic F Lewis should play despite ankle (AP)
Orlando Magic forward Rashard Lewis has a sprained left ankle but says he should be fine for Game 3 against Charlotte on Saturday. Lewis had a wrap around the ankle after practicing Friday. He says he came down sideways on the ankle in Game 2 against the Bobcats. Lewis stayed in the game and didn't show any effects from the injury.

Stern warning: Stop griping about refs (AP)
NBA commissioner David Stern is tired of coaches and players griping about the officiating, and challenged them Thursday to "make my day" by continuing to complain during the rest of the playoffs. The league handed out fines of $35,000 apiece on Thursday to Boston Celtics forward Rasheed Wallace, Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy and Orlando forward Matt Barnes for publicly criticizing...

Van Gundy, Barnes each fined $35,000 (AP)
The NBA fined Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy and forward Matt Barnes $35,000 each Thursday for publicly criticizing officials. Van Gundy and Barnes said after the Magic beat Charlotte on Wednesday night that they were not happy with the way officials called the game on Dwight Howard. Orlando's All-Star center has been in foul trouble the first two games of the series.

Offensive woes put Bobcats in 0-2 hole (AP)
The extra practice didn't help the Bobcats. Coach Larry Brown's motivational speech on Orlando taking a day off while they worked failed, too. So maybe it was a good idea Charlotte took the day off Thursday. Perhaps some time away will help the Bobcats solve the riddle of putting the ball through the hoop when they return home for Game 3 on Saturday.

Magic hold court in 2nd half for win vs. Bobcats
Vince Carter finished with 19 points, Dwight Howard scored 15 and the Orlando Magic took a 2-0 series lead with a 92-77 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats on Wednesday night.

Magic top Bobcats for 2-0 series lead (AP)
The Dwight Howard-Vince Carter combo again wasn't perfect -- just good enough to win. Carter finished with 19 points, Howard scored 15 and the Orlando Magic took a 2-0 series lead with a 92-77 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats on Wednesday night. The Magic's star duo was less than stellar but took over when it counted most.

Van Gundy: Playoffs need fewer days off (AP)
Stan Van Gundy has a request for the NBA: fewer days between games in the playoffs. Never one to shy away from giving his opinion, the Orlando Magic coach said Wednesday before Game 2 against Charlotte that the league's first-round playoff format that spreads games out for prime-time television is difficult on teams.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy: Playoffs should have fewer days off
Stan Van Gundy has a request for the NBA: fewer days off between games in the playoffs.

Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard wins second defensive player of year award
Dwight Howard has won his second straight NBA defensive player of the year award after becoming the only player to lead the league in blocks and rebounds in the same season twice -- let alone in consecutive years.

Howard NBA's top defensive player again (AP)
Dwight Howard has won his second straight NBA defensive player of the year award after becoming the only player to lead the league in blocks and rebounds in the same season twice -- let alone in consecutive years. Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy and players confirmed the All-Star center will accept the award at a news conference Tuesday at 2 p.m.

Magic survive Bobcats despite struggling late
Jameer Nelson scored 24 of his 32 points in the first half, and the Orlando Magic nearly blew a 22-point lead before beating the Charlotte Bobcats 98-89 in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series Sunday.

Magic build big lead, hold off Bobcats (AP)
Jameer Nelson scored 24 of his 32 points in the first half, and the Orlando Magic nearly blew a 22-point lead before beating the Charlotte Bobcats 98-89 in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series Sunday. Rashard Lewis added 19 points, and Dwight Howard had nine blocks but was limited offensively and in foul trouble for most of the second half.

Charlotte Bobcats' Stephen Jackson carried off with knee injury
Charlotte Bobcats swingman Stephen Jackson was carried off the floor with an apparent left knee injury in Game 1 against the Orlando Magic.

Bobcats' Jackson carried off vs. Magic (AP)
Charlotte Bobcats swingman Stephen Jackson was carried off the floor with an apparent left knee injury in Game 1 against the Orlando Magic. Teammate Gerald Wallace dove for a loose ball and collided with Jackson, who laid on the floor in pain as Orlando's Jameer Nelson hit a 3-pointer at the first-half buzzer Sunday.

Magic, Bobcats in friendly, fiery series (AP)
Matt Barnes sent the playful, trash-talking text messages and voice mails for a week until finally getting a call back from Stephen Jackson. The two shared a laugh, caught up and made plans to hang out in Orlando until Sunday evening. Then their friendship will be put on hold. "We know once that game starts," Jackson said, "we're going to play like we don't know each...

Magic GM not afraid to take chances (AP)
Otis Smith pulls back on the accelerator and the motorcycle roars. The wind pushes against his face, any stresses fading in the rearview mirror. Nothing but the open road ahead. Riding motorcycles is a hobby of the Orlando Magic's general manager, a ritual of sorts when big decisions await. Sure, it's dangerous.

Cavs, Magic, Lakers open as favorites (AP)
Maybe Kobe Bryant is too beaten up to last through three playoff rounds against the rest of the West. Perhaps the aging Boston Celtics do have one more run in them, or the Atlanta Hawks are ready to take the next step. Sure, it's easy to think this year's NBA champion will be LeBron James and Cleveland, Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers, or the Orlando Magic.

Magic set single-season mark with 841 3s (AP)
Jameer Nelson had 21 points, Vince Carter scored 17 and the Orlando Magic broke the single-season record for 3-pointers made in their 125-111 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night. Dwight Howard added 15 points and 12 rebounds to help the Magic finish with 841 from beyond the arc, the NBA's second-best record and close the last regular-season game at Amway Arena in style.

Magic set NBA season record for 3s (AP)
The Orlando Magic have set a record for most 3-pointers in a single season. Vince Carter made the Magic's 838th shot from beyond the arc Wednesday night just before halftime against the Philadelphia 76ers. That surpasses the mark of 837 set by the 2005-06 Phoenix Suns. Carter's shot from the corner just in front of the Magic's bench came with 20.9 seconds remaining in the second quarter.

76ers' Jordan not worried about rumors (AP)
Philadelphia 76ers coach Eddie Jordan said he's "not concerned" about his job security and doesn't have any planned meetings with front-office personnel about his status. The Sixers entered the season finale at Orlando on Wednesday night with a 27-54 record. Jordan said the only things he anticipates Thursday are a team meeting, individual exit meetings and taking his staff out to...

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard starts fund for at-risk children around world
Dwight Howard has started a fund for at-risk children around the world, beginning with a $100,000 donation for young earthquake victims in Haiti.

Magic's Howard donates $100K for Haiti (AP)
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has started a fund for at-risk children around the world, beginning with a $100,000 donation for young earthquake victims in Haiti. The Magic's All-Star center and teammate Adonal Foyle formed the "The Dwight Howard Fund" announced Wednesday. Howard has tapped Foyle's Kerosene Lamp Foundation to manage the fund for him.

Magic to say farewell to Amway Arena (AP)
There are no NBA championship banners hanging from the rafters. No lasting pre-game traditions, no spectacular gadgets or gizmos. Just Magic memories. After 21 seasons as the only home the Orlando Magic have ever known, Amway Arena's run is almost over. Orlando hosts the Philadelphia 76ers in the last regular-season game Wednesday night in a place that housed two NBA finals and plenty of historic...

Carter leads Magic to fifth straight win (AP)
The Orlando Magic are finishing the regular season with a kick. Vince Carter scored 21 points to help Orlando beat the Indiana Pacers 118-98 on Monday night for their fifth straight win. Jameer Nelson had 15 points, eight assists and seven rebounds and Rashard Lewis scored 14 points for the Magic. Matt Barnes had 13 points and 11 rebounds and Dwight Howard added 12 points and 11 rebounds for...

Cavs' James sits out third straight game (AP)
LeBron James missed his third straight game for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are putting rest ahead of their record as the NBA playoffs near. Coach Mike Brown decided to sit James and starting forward Anthony Parker for the team's regular-season home finale Sunday against the Orlando Magic. Brown also might keep James out of the lineup Wednesday night when the Cavs close their regular season at...

LeBron James of Cleveland Cavaliers sitting for third straight game vs. Orlando Magic
LeBron James is missing his third straight game for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are putting rest ahead of their record as the NBA playoffs near.

Magic C Gortat honors Polish president (AP)
Orlando Magic center Marcin Gortat of Poland is paying tribute to his homeland's president, who was killed along with 95 others in a plane crash in Russia. Gortat's father knew President Lech Kaczynski. Gortat wrote the number of the fatal flight on his sneakers before the Magic played the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday.

Magic beat James-less Cavaliers 98-92 (AP)
Mickael Pietrus scored all 12 of his points in the fourth quarter and Jameer Nelson hit a big 3-pointer in the closing minutes, leading the Orlando Magic to a 98-92 win Sunday over the Cleveland Cavaliers, who rested LeBron James for the playoffs Pietrus was a matchup nightmare in the playoffs last season for Cleveland, averaging 13.9 points in the Eastern Conference finals when the Magic beat...

With LeBron resting, Nelson, Magic edge Cavs
Mickael Pietrus scored all 12 of his points in the fourth quarter and Jameer Nelson hit a big 3-pointer in the closing minutes, leading the Orlando Magic to a 98-92 win Sunday over the Cleveland Cavaliers, who rested LeBron James for the playoffs.

Magic prep for Cavs by ripping Knicks (AP)
Dwight Howard and Vince Carter scored 25 points apiece, and the Orlando Magic tuned up for the playoffs with a 118-103 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday night. Reserve Ryan Anderson added 19 points to help the Magic build a 24-point lead and hold on for their 17th win in their last 20 games.

Brown may keep James out for season (AP)
LeBron James' regular season could be over. James was one of four starters missing for Friday's game against the Indiana Pacers. With home-court advantage already clinched throughout the playoffs, coach Mike Brown didn't rule out his healthy superstar also sitting against Orlando on Sunday and Atlanta on Wednesday.

Magic easily roll past Wizards 121-94 (AP)
Dwight Howard had 17 points and 10 rebounds, and the Orlando Magic beat the Washington Wizards 121-94 on Wednesday night. J.J. Redick and Mickael Pietrus added 16 points apiece to pull Orlando within a half-game of the idle Los Angeles Lakers for home-court advantage in case of a possible NBA finals rematch, the only thing really left at stake for the Magic.

Magic cruise closer to Southeast title, 2nd seed
Vince Carter had 26 points and seven rebounds, and the Orlando Magic beat the Memphis Grizzles 107-92 Sunday night after an on-court scuffle.

Scuffle mars Magic win over Grizzlies (AP)
Vince Carter had 26 points and seven rebounds, and the Orlando Magic beat the Memphis Grizzles 107-92 Sunday night after an on-court scuffle. The scrum between Matt Barnes and Hasheem Thabeet escalated into a near 10-player shoving match. There were six technical fouls by game's end, plenty of pop for an Easter matchup that had little meaning in the standings.

Shoving match between Hasheem Thabeet, Matt Barnes causes scuffle between Memphis Grizzlies, Orlando Magic
A game between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies broke out into a scuffle.

Tempers flare between Magic, Grizzlies (AP)
A game between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies broke out into a scuffle. Matt Barnes was called for an offensive foul for pushing off on Memphis center Hasheem Thabeet with 6:54 remaining in the third quarter Sunday. Barnes got up to protest the call and bumped Thabeet, who shoved Barnes, who came back with an even harder push square in the center's chest.

Ginobili's 43 help Spurs outlast Magic (AP)
Manu Ginobili scored 43 points, his fourth 30-plus game since replacing Tony Parker in the starting lineup last month, leading the San Antonio Spurs to a 112-100 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night. Tim Duncan had 23 points and the Spurs temporarily pulled themselves out of the last playoff seed in the West, where San Antonio is bunched up with Portland and Oklahoma City in a race to...

Ginobili's 43 improve Spurs' playoff positioning
Manu Ginobili scored 43 points, his fourth 30-plus game since replacing Tony Parker in the starting lineup last month, leading the San Antonio Spurs to a 112-100 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night.

Howard dominates inside as Magic down Mavs