They watched themselves on video and didn't like how they behaved. They weren't running hard. They weren't playing smart.
"We're usually the team that's out running, getting easy baskets -- they were doing it," said Magic center Dwight Howard on Monday after reviewing his 3-for-10 shooting, seven-turnover performance in a Game 1 loss to Boston in the Eastern Conference finals. "It's about effort. These types of games, the closer you get to the NBA Finals, it's more about effort than anything."
HoopsVibe's Call: Game two is a test for Dwight Howard, the athletic centre for the Orlando Magic.
After a sub par game one, the friendly five-man must shed his perma-smile, drop his lovable Disney demeanour, demand the ball from teammates, and establish a down low presence.
Implementing an inside-outside strategy will create additional space for the Magic’s shooters and scorers: Vince Carter, Rashard Lewis, and Jameer Nelson.
Unfortunately, Stan Van Gundy’s squad often forget about Howard. Take game one. All the talk is on Howard's poor 3-for-10 shooting. The real issue is why he got so few attempts. He needs 15-20 shots to have an impact on the offensive end of the floor.
Instead of treating him like an unwanted step child, Orlando must go through and rediscover Howard, their franchise player, to win game two. The series, their season, and championship aspirations depend on it.
Is Dwight Howard the key to the Orlando Magic winning game two? Get at us in the comment box below.