The Magic played a good game tonight. Even though Shaq did not play tonight, the Heat were able to pull out the win 95-89. Despite losing the game, the Magic showed signs of how well this team is coming together. Rookie Dwight Howard had another big game, scoring 17 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Grant Hill is looking better each game he plays. Steve Francis has another franchise night with 17 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds. Rookie Jameer Nelson was all over the place tonight, scoring 17 points in 14 minutes. Nelson's jump shot is getting better and he is starting to show signs of control. Cuttino Mobley and Hedo Turkoglu were off tonight, not playing their best. Both however, still managed to rebound the ball fairly well.
That is the thing I like the most about this team so far. We get effort every night from every player. When one player is having an off night shooting or defending, this team can pick up the slack. The players do what they can to contribute to the team. With each game that passes, this team gives me a little more to hope for the upcoming year.