by Bob Bagley, NBA betting analyst - February 12, 2009
The Magic are facing the real possibility of tying or beating their franchise record 60 wins in a season.
They have a healthy 38-12 record with just one game left before the All-Star break. They are just a step behind Boston and Cleveland for the best record in the Eastern Conference. Only the 1995-1996 Magic team ever had a 60-win season.
They went on to lose to the Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals that season. This year's team has their eyes set higher.
Orlando obtained point guard Tyronn Lue in a trade with Milwaukee after All-Star guard Jameer Nelson was lost for the season with a severe shoulder injury. Magic General Manager Otis Smith noted that "Tyronn is a veteran point guard who fits in well with our style of play. He shoots well from 3-point range and adds needed depth at that position."
Sunday night he did just as anticipated, scoring 2 points in 2 minutes playing time without making a turnover. Lue, a 10-year player in the league, is counted on as a steady backup guard.
Basketball bets are showing an inclination to go with the Magic this season. Even with Nelson out, it looks like the Magic will be able to maintain their momentum. Anthony Johnson stepped up as the starting point guard in the last game, grabbing eight rebounds for a season-best.
The Magic now have a 6-2 record with Johnson as a starter.
Along with Nelson, guard Mike Wilks is out for the season with a torn ACL. He is now recovering from the surgery to his knee, after waiting for a month for the operation because of swelling.
On a positive note, center Tony Battie passed the 4000 rebound plateau in the last game. He finished the game with 6 boards and 6 points.
