The Orlando Magic have had to fight an uphill battle all game against the Boston Celtics. They’ve trailed most of the game since opening on a 13-0 run, and haven’t really been able to get into the rhythm. Still, despite no field goals and four fouls for Dwight Howard, the Magic trail just 63-57 after three quarters.
Celtics Vs. Magic, NBA Christmas Day: Dwight Howard In Foul Trouble As Orlando Trails 63-57 After Three Quarters
It’s been a nightmare game for Howard. He picked up two early fouls in the third quarter, and coach Stan Van Gundy elected to take him out at the 8:56 mark of the quarter. He has just one point on 0-3 shooting in 21 minutes of game action, receiving almost no touches in the post. But without Howard in the lineup, the Magic have rallied somewhat. They’ve outscored the Celtics by four points since Howard went out, as Hedo Turkoglu has come alive again with 16 points.
Boston is still led by Paul Pierce, who has 18 points and eight rebounds in the game. The Celtics continue to shut the Magic down defensively, holding them to 33 percent shooting from the field and 7-24 shooting from the three-point line. The Celtics have held the combination of Howard, Jameer Nelson and Jason Richardson to just 2-16 shooting from the field.
See More:
