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Magic vs.
Hornets
2/18/09
Although the All Star game in Phoenix wasn’t as competitive as
expected there were some great highlights throughout the whole
weekend of NBA events.
Unfortunately for Dwight Howard his NBA Slam Dunk title will be for
one year as his title defense was upset by little Nate Robinson
after he jumped over the seven footer and dunk it in Kryptonite New
York Knicks gear.
This year’s dunk contest was definitely one of the more theatrical
as Nate Robinson and Dwight Howard put on a show as little Lex
Luthor and Superman, but it was as entertaining as it gets.
Now that all the theatrics is over with it is back to business as
usual for Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic.
The first team in their way will be Chris Paul’s New Orleans Hornets
and
Sportsbook.com has the Hornets favored by -1
Last season the Hornets were arguably one of the best teams in the
league lead by Paul’s amazing ability to make his entire team better
with his passing skill, scoring flair and lockdown defense. Steve
Nash and Jason Kidd have gone back and forth over the years as the
two top names as the best point guards in the league, but after
Chris Paul’s MVP like season last year I think the debate is finally
over and the torch has been past down.
Not only is Paul amazing to watch on the offensive end of the floor,
but his defense at the point guard position is unmatched. Yeah Tony
Parker and Jason Kidd can play defense as good as anyone in the
league in the backcourt, but Chris Paul is not just anyone.
Both the Orlando Magic and New Orleans Hornets will come into this
match with an agenda. Some say that this season has been somewhat of
a disappointment for Chris Paul and company, even though Paul is
playing almost identical to last season’s form.
The problem isn’t Chris Paul in New Orleans; it is the supporting
cast of the Hornets. With an upgrade of James Posey the Hornets
thought they could be the team to beat in the West, but with lack
luster performances from sharp shooter Peja Stojakovic and other
role players they just haven’t been the same as last season’s
surprising title contenders.
The Orlando Magic on the other hand have had a breakout season as
they are firing on all cylinders with improved performances from all
the team’s starters this season, especially center Dwight Howard.
Not only is Dwight Howard just dominating in the Magic’s new offense
under Stan Van Gundy, but the rest of the Magic are also benefiting
from Howard’s success in Orlando.
With shooters like Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu surrounding
Howard and Jameer Nelson turning into an elite point guard the Magic
have finally become title contenders in the East once again.
The Hornets might put up a good fight against Dwight Howard and
company, but the Magic will be just too much for them to handle.
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