The Boston Celtics have been able to contain Orlando Magic star Dwight Howard in the past, even if they were covering him with just one person. That hasn’t been the case in 2010, and it certainly isn’t the case this afternoon. Howard has 12 points already as the Magic jumped ahead 12-2 early and currently lead 22-17 after one quarter.
Magic Vs. Celtics: Dwight Howard Dominating As Orlando Leads 22-17 After One Quarter
Howard has one dunk and one wide open layup, but for the most part, he’s showed off his improved post moves against Kendrick Perkins. Howard has one running left-handed hook, two lefty jump hooks and this runner over the top of the backboard (via @jose3030).
The Celtics rallied a bit at the end of the quarter. Howard was taken out of the game with 3:32 to go after being poked in the eye by Celtics backup center Semih Erden. The Celtics took advantage with a run to close the quarter. Nate Robinson was fouled on a three-pointer and hit all three free throws, and Paul Pierce made a couple nice plays, including one beautiful pass to Semih Erden for the dunk. Orlando’s offense, meanwhile, struggled, as they scored just four points after Howard exited.
Howard is really the only player doing anything offensively for either team. He is shooting 6-9 from the field, while his teammates are just 5-18. The Celtics, on the other hand, are just 4-14 from the field and have five turnovers as a team.
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