The Magic lose a close game to the leagues best team (record-wise), the Dallas Mavericks, 103-98. In my opinion, the Magic played their best game of the year tonight as every player got into the game and played hard. Dwight Howard led the way with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Jameer Nelson had 17 points but no assists. This inconsistent play from the point guard position is not going to get this team into the playoffs. Hedo Turkoglu however, is starting to show signs of life. Turkoglu showed up tonight and scored 19 points and even picked up 7 rebounds. Trevor Ariza continues to get back into playing condition after returning from his knee injury. Ariza finished with a quiet 11 points.
What really irks me about this team is the inconsistent play. The Magic tend to play down to their opponents playing level yet rise to challenge against better teams. After losing to the Spurs last night, the team bounces back and plays extremely well against the best team in the NBA. One could argue that this was probably the most difficult game the Mavericks have had in a few weeks. Sure seems like a Grant Hill off the bench could have been made a difference.
