Inconsistency. That is the best word to describe the Orlando Magic this season. In their last four games this team has beat the Los Angeles Clippers and the Indiana Pacers, two playoff destined teams. They have also lost to the Washington Wizards and with Friday night's 106-100 effort, lost to the Charlotte Bobcats. On the season neither of those two teams have more than 10 wins. On Friday night, Magic fans' reason for disappointment was evident again.
For the ninth time in its last eleven games, the Magic gave up over 100 points. They have now lost six games in a row against teams that are under .500 on the season. Even with five players in double figures, including Afflalo and Jameer scoring 23 and 22 respectively, it wasn't enough to get the W. The 12 point halftime deficit was too big to overcome. A big factor was free throw shooting. With both teams finishing 37-79 from the floor (46.8%), the difference was 17 extra free throws for the Bobcats. Vucevic finished one rebound shy of another double double, ending his streak at eight straight, and Glen Davis could only manage four points in his 24 minutes on the floor. Jameer Nelson left the game late in the fourth quarter after a collision near mid-court and did not return.
The Bobcats got great play from their backcourt to end a five game slide. The quickness and hustle from Kemba Walker, Gerald Henderson, and Ramon Sessions off the bench, led the Bobcats. Kemba had 25 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Henderson was 8-11 from the field and ended the night with 17 points. Off the bench, Sessions had 15 points and 7 assists of his own.
The Magic return to the court Sunday night at home against the Dallas Mavericks. The game is scheduled to start at 6:00 p.m. ET. It is family fun night at Amway Arena as well so bring the whole family out to see if they can pull out a win.
Comments