Magic at Pistons
THE STORY: Orlando's depth could be tested Tuesday when the Magic
visit the Detroit Pistons. Orlando has lost three in a row and might be
without All-Star center Dwight Howard (back spasms) and 3-point
specialist Ryan Anderson (sprained right ankle). Detroit is 7-2 in its
last nine home games and is coming off a 110-107 overtime victory
against Charlotte. The Pistons won that game without Rodney Stuckey
(hamstring) and Ben Gordon (sore groin). Gordon is expected to play
Tuesday.
TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, FS Florida (Magic), FS Detroit (Pistons)
ABOUT THE MAGIC (32-31):
Without Howard, the Magic were exposed on defense in Sunday’s 104-101
loss to Denver. The Nuggets shot 55.6 percent, the highest any opponent
has shot against the Magic this season. “We could not get a stop on any
situation,” Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said. “It was a very frustrating
night.” Howard likely will be in the lineup. Anderson left the game
late and X-rays were negative on his ankle. He is listed as day-to-day.
ABOUT THE PISTONS (19-33):
Will Bynum provided the Pistons a huge boost in the absence of Stuckey
and Gordon, scoring 17 points and making a tying 3-pointer with 15.7
seconds left in regulation against Charlotte. It was an ego-booster
considering Bynum had missed all eight shots against Chicago the night
before. “You have ups and downs, it's part of the game,” he said. “It's
just playing through it and knowing your ability.” Tayshaun Prince is
averaging 21.3 points in his last four games.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. Sunday’s game was the first Howard missed all season. He played in all 82 games in five of his first seven seasons.
2. Detroit leads the all-time series at home 30-12 and has won 11 of the last 14 at home.
3. Detroit had a season-high 62 points in the paint Saturday after scoring only 24 in Chicago.