Magic at Bucks: It All Went Right

The Orlando Magic got back on the right track as they crushed the Milwaukee Bucks 103-86. Orlando put forth a solid effort and dominated in a place where they’ve historically struggled to get their franchise record 24th road victory of the season.

What went right:

1. Early energy- The Magic were not lethargic at the start, and came out aggressive on both ends of the court as they took a 17 point lead in the first quarter and never looked back.

2. Great defense- Orlando looked like Boston on the defensive end as they challenged nearly every Milwaukee shot, and looked as if they actually wanted to play lock down D as much as on the other end of the court. After 3 quarters of play (before the team emptied the bench), the Magic held the Bucks to under 37% from the field. Milwaukee finished the game hitting on just 33.3% (33-99).

3. Dominant Dwight- The Bucks had no answer for Superman on this night, as they were playing “Hack-a-Howard” to no avail, as Dwight scored 25 points (through 3 quarters), and grabbed 11 boards. Dwight made 11 of his 14 free throws.

4. Free throws were improved- Orlando hit on 23 of 30 free throws for 76.7%. The 76.7% isn’t fantastic, but it is improved from previous games.

5. Great Cook- Brian Cook led all Magic bench scorers with 12 points on 4-7 shooting.

6. Balanced attack- Aside from Howard’s 25 points, 5 other Magicians were in double figures with none having more than 16 points (Rashard Lewis).

Magic MVP: Dwight Howard- Howard was easily the most dominant force in the building as none of the Bucks big men had a chance at stopping the All-Star center.

There’s not a great need for a “what went wrong” article, as the Magic went on the road and put on a dominant performance. The only negatives that were noteworthy were the Bucks rebounding advantage, 59-44, including 25 offensive boards, and the poor shot selection by Orlando, which often happens in a blowout.