The execution of the "Princeton" offense has Pete Carril rolling over in his bed. Despite the fact that the Magic are
averaging 87.1 point per contest, good for third-worst in the league, they have a new calling card thanks to head coach
Brian Hill. Preaching defense, accountability and pride, the Magic have
turned a 0-3 start into a 6-6 campaign all while missing an all-star in
Grant Hill. Just how good have the Magic been defensively? Best in the
league. No, that's not a misprint, these aren't your father's
Orlando Magic, and they actually take pride in stopping the ball. The Magic have been stingy,
allowing just 88 points a game. While defense is the main story, there are a few intriguing sub-plots. The emergence of
Jameer Nelson as a truly clutch player has given Orlando another
option to turn to in the 4th quarter.
Dwight Howard has been having a sensational beginning to his
sophomore season, going for double-doubles in 75% of the games he's played in.
Steve Francis is buying in to Coach Hill's system and playing under
control. But the guards aren't the only ones having a huge impact; the Magic bigs have been tremendous in the early going.
Orlando has out-rebounded their opponents in 11 of 12 games. It's becoming harder and harder to not be excited about this team.
A plan that was once to tread water until
Grant Hill returned from an abdominal strain has now become a plan that
is to swim towards the top of the Southeastern Division.
DOWN THE ROAD: After taking 3 of 4 on the home stand, the Magic will embark on a 4-game road trip against Boston,
Chicago, Memphis and Milwaukee. Look for the Magic to go 2-2 on that trip, and find themselves at 8-8 just in time to face the
defending champion Spurs at home.
DOC IN THE HOUSE: Just as one injury heals, another player seems to go down for the Magic. Friday night,
Keyon Dooling re-aggravated his heel contusion, and has been placed on
the inactive list. He underwent an MRI on Saturday, and his status is yet to be determined.
Tony Battie injured his right elbow battling against Alonzo
Mourning and the Heat, he is day-to-day.
FINAL THOUGHT: When Gary Payton stepped out of bounds, was any Magic fan still in their seat? A great win.
