.500 on the West Coast used to be good
December 12th, 2009 | by donvandemark |In previous years, all I wanted from the Magic was to break even on West Coast trips. Now, especially with the type of losses, it’s disappointing.
The loss to Utah was disappointing in that the Magic started that game so hot, jumping to a 51-33 lead halfway through the second quarter and then being outscored 87-60 to rest of the game. Friday’s game against Phoenix was almost the opposite in that the Magic just didn’t show up in the first quarter and then fought back. At the end, they just couldn’t finish the game, leading 99-95 but losing 106-103.
I don’t think the whole dust-up over Rashard Lewis’ refusal to enter the game against Utah in the second quarter will fester but that is turning out to be one hallmark of a successful team – the endless drama. It’s truly turning into its own reality show.
Monday’s home game against Indiana looks to be a good balm for this team but don’t forget that the first game back home is just like a road game except that you got to sleep in your own bed. Luckily, it’s not a back-to-back as the Magic have the weekend off so I expect the team to jump out of the Pacers. The Magic don’t leave the state of Florida for the rest of the month and the schedule is a good mix, five games against winning teams and 3 against losing, with the Christmas tilt against Boston highlighting the rest of the December schedule. I hope Nelson is able to make it back before that game but if not, we press on.
