Orlando heads to Los Angeles Saturday riding a ten game losing streak. Things don't look to get any easier as they face the Clippers who have only eight losses all season. Nicknamed "Lob City" for the countless alley-oops thrown down, the Magic will face another big challenge in the post without forward Glen Davis. Davis, who is still out with a dislocated shoulder, would be a huge help on the inside to match up against young superstar, Blake Griffin.
The Clippers have rebuilt their team and are now a force to be reckoned with. Bolstering a 28-8 record heading into Saturday's tilt, the organization's facelift is finally coming to fruition. They have a solid young nucleus coupled with big time talent. Bringing Chris Paul into the organization in the offseason could be the final piece the Clippers need to compete not only in the West but for an NBA title as well. He is second in the league with 9.5 assists per game, as well as leading the NBA with 2.58 steals per game. The Clippers boast depth and talent at every position and even with some key players out because of injuries. Regardless, they are allowing the fourth fewest points per game at just over 93 per game.
The Magic are looking to model their team after what the Clippers have done over the past few seasons. With the departure of Dwight Howard the team was able to clear a lot of cap room and acquire young talent to build towards the future. Couple this with a new home arena and the Magic are setting up a nice future for the organization. Saturday should prove to be another stepping stone as the Clippers have only three losses inside Staples Center. Jameer Nelson has been playing well during the skid and will have to step up again if the Magic have any hope of knocking off Los Angeles.
The game will air live Saturday at 3:30 ET on FSN Florida.
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