The Magic drop their sixth game in a row as they lose a back-to-back against the Miami Heat, 110-100. The Magic were close until the third quarter when they began to lay an egg. Down by 29 in the fourth quarter, the Magic made a run, trimming the lead to 6 before Gary Payton nailed two big 3-point shots to keep the Heat ahead.
Even thought Dwight Howard ended up with another double-double, I felt that his energy - or lack their of - is what got the Magic behind early. The game begins and ends with Howard. Regardless of whether the guards are getting him the ball or not, I didn;t see him moving without the ball very often. He would post up and then stand around. Even his rebounding was slightly off tonight. I don't know if he is tired or just frustrated - but I hope he sorts it out soon. Filling that stat sheet is great but I'm ready to see him to make a difference between winning and losing. Right now, I just don't see him doing enough to will this team to win.
Grant Hill was playing in his third game since returning from injury. Hill played alright, but you can tell his timing is still slightly off. Steve Francis was pretty much in another world for about the 5th or 6th straight game. I really wish he would get his act together.
This Magic team is in serious need of an identity. I personally think it is Howard - but he needs to show us what he is capable of. It's time for Howard to show us that he is the difference in winning and losing. No, I don't need the Magic to win every game - but the great ones can make a difference and make the game close.
