Orlando Will Need a Few Magic Moments to Comeback in the NBA Finals
The Orlando Magic can be forgiven for their atrocious showing against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Hollywood stars and glaring lights can often have an unsettling effect on newcomers and the Magic proved that they were not quite ready for the big stage. However, they looked more like a professional basketball team in Game 2 and were only one layup away from tying the series. Now down 0-2, the Magic are on the verge of being swept by the Lakers. In order for the Magic to upset the Lake Show or make this series an enjoyable contest to watch, the team from central Florida will have to do three key things. –a.r.
Give the Ball to Dwight – The Los Angeles Lakers have done a terrific job of exposing Dwight Howard’s lack of a legitimate low post move. However, the Magic must continue to find ways for Howard to get more opportunities to score. Once he becomes an offensive threat, the Lakers will be forced to double and triple-team Howard. In turn, the Magic’s guards will be able to take advantage of wide-open looks from the perimeter.
Point Play – Jameer Nelson’s return to the Magic in Game 1 seemed to have disturbed the team’s chemistry. Coach Stan Van Gundy showed his displeasure with his point guards’ performance (Nelson and Rafer Alston) by benching them both in the fourth quarter of Game 2. Nelson and Alston will have to make a difference throughout the rest of the series if the Magic want to think about holding the Larry O’Brien trophy in one week.
Recapturing Confidence – The Magic defeated LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers by hitting 3-pointers and capitalizing on misses and turnovers. In the NBA Finals, the Magic have yet to dominate beyond the 3-point line. The Magic must recapture their confidence and play their style of run-and-shoot basketball in order to extend or win this series.
