The Magic stayed with Phoenix in the first half, but could not buy a basket in the third as they lose a tough game to the Suns, 103-89. Grant Hill was playing exceptional early on - but the team started in another direction and limited his overall effectiveness. For the 3rd or 4th straight game now, the Magic have either not been able to get the ball into the post and Dwight Howard's hands or the perimeter players are unwilling to do so.
I'm not quite ready to jump on the boo wagon yet, but if this team does not correct a couple serious flaws in the next couple games - you can expect a small losing streak. With a bunch of home games upcoming, the team has to put away as many as they can now. We're basically looking at a couple corrections from the players and the coaching staff.
- Jameer Nelson and Carlos Arroyo have to start showing up consistently for games and getting Howard involved in practically every play.
- Get Howard involved in every play. He doesn't have to score, just touch the ball.
- Grant Hill. All-Star. I think he knows a little bit about playing basketball. USE HIM!
- Find time for Trevor Ariza. I am of the same attitude with him as I was DeShawn Stevenson. Let the kid play. I never like to draw comparisons, but he's half Tracy McGrady (the good half) and half Dennis Rodman.
- A consistent rotation of players. Sometimes Howard plays 14 minutes straight; sometimes he comes out with 2 minutes to go in the quarter. Playing time has to become organized. Starting players need a break, regardless of how they feel. And the bench needs consistent expectations.
Other than that, the team plays hard, they listen to the coach and the little things are getting better. But the team is also young and has a few potentially serious flaws.
2 Comments on "Magic vs Phoenix"
Ariza had the hot hand in Q4. I wanted to see him get the ball more.
And, in Q3, we were trying to outshoot the suns. It was ridiculous. Every shot I remember was a low percentage shot.
It shows you how far we still have to go to challenge to top of the NBA.
I agree Andi. There were a couple plays in the third and fourth where the ball never changed hands. The team has to move the ball and throw a pass or two into Howard - just to keep the defense honest.