The Portland Trail Blazers nearly fought back from a 23-point third quarter deficit to preserve their perfect home record on Wednesday, but the Orlando Magic held on late and closed out a 107-104 victory. Orlando had seven players in double figures, using a balanced attack to slice up Portland's typically stout defense. Dwight Howard scored just 13 points, going 3-12 from the free throw line. But the Magic shot nearly 59 percent from the floor as a team.
Magic Vs. Blazers: Orlando Resists Comeback Bid, Hands Portland Its First Home Loss
The Orlando Magic held on by their knickers to hand the Portland Trail Blazers their first home loss on Wednesday.
Jamal Crawford, LaMarcus Aldridge and Gerald Wallace led a furious fourth quarter comeback for Portland, each scoring nine points, but it just wasn't enough. A 13-2 run pulled Portland to within three points with under three minutes left, but Hedo Turkoglu dropped two quick baskets and Howard hit a free throw to stretch the lead back out to nine, demoralizing the rallying Blazers.
Aldridge finished with 23 points on 10-17 shooting, and Crawford had 24 on 10-17 shooting to pace Portland.
For more on Portland, visit Blazer’s Edge. For more on the Magic, visit Orlando Pinstriped Post.
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