Dwight Howard’s 16 points and 24 rebounds led the Orlando Magic to a 94-78 win over visiting Deron Williams and the New Jersey Nets Thursday night.
Much has been made this season over whether or not Dwight will be traded to the Nets. After listening to offers General Manager Otis Smith decided to take Hoawrd off the trading block in hopes “to sign Dwight long term.”
Considering Howard collected his 49th career 20 rebound game Thursday night that may have been the best move Smith has made all year.
Ryan Anderson scored 22 points, Jason Richardson added 16 and JJ Redick chipped in 15 off the bench for Orlando.
The Magic only led by 4 at the half but were able to out score the Nets 44-34 in the second half.
After being down by double digits most of the night New Jersey was able to cut the deficit to 7. However that’s the closest the Nets would get.
Orlando’s balanced attack proved to be too much for the Nets. The Magic had 5 players in double digits.
Deron Williams didn’t have the kind of night that would have you thinking Dwight needs him to win a championship. Williams missed his first 6 shots and ended the game 2-12 from the field with 10 points.
Rookie forward MarSHon Brooks led The Nets with 17 points followed by Chris Humphries 9 points and 10 rebounds.
The Magic now (2-1) have won back-to back-games and will travel to play the Charlotte Bobcats Friday night.
Fantastic article by David Gaulman. It was very informative but not too lengthy.