Orlando Magic 111, Oklahoma City Thunder 88
by Evan Dunlap on Feb 25, 2011 11:19 PM EST
in 2010/2011 Recaps
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PrintTwo nights after a dispiriting home loss to the Sacramento Kings, the Orlando Magic bounced back in a major way, blowing out the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 111-88 final score behind one of Dwight Howard's finest performances of the season. Howard imposed his will on both ends of the floor, shooting 16-of-20 from the field--with 9 dunks--for 40 points on offense and blocking 6 shots on defense. He also hauled in 15 boards. The undersized Nick Collison and overmatched Cole Aldrich couldn't stop him, and Orlando smartly fed him the ball whenever possible. Hedo Turkoglu posted a game-high 10 assists, many of them over the top of the Thunder's defense for alley-oop lobs for Howard. Additionally, Jason Richardson scored 17 points and maded five three-pointers, while J.J. Redick shot 6-of-12 off the Magic's bench for 16 points.
Offense came easily for Orlando tonight, just as it did in its loss to the Thunder last month. The biggest difference came on the defensive end, where the Magic expertly bottled up Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, the Thunder's All-Stars. The pair shot 14-of-41 from the field for 41 points, with very few of those baskets coming easily. Jameer Nelson played off Westbrook, who has a suspect outside shot, when he could afford to, and otherwise stayed in front of the speedy third-year pro. And, as color analyst Hubie Brown pointed out, Orlando's blitzed its pick-and-roll coverage on those two players, forgetting about the roll-man entirely to key in on them. It worked magnificently.
| Team | Pace | Efficiency | eFG% | FT Rate | OReb% | TO Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thunder | 93 | 94.2 | 39.1% | 23.0 | 27.3 | 13.9 |
| Magic | 88 | 126.6 | 56.1% | 23.2 | 29.5 | 11.4 |
| Green denotes a stat better than the team's season average; red denotes a stat worse than the team's season average. | ||||||
When the Magic's perimeter guys got beat off the bounce, their help-side defenders rotated over to take away any advantage the Thunder might have had. Howard showed tonight, to the people who only admire him for his blocks, that he's one of the best help defenders in the league with his on-point work there. Second-year forward Earl Clark, who logged an effective 22 minutes off the bench, also did great work here. When he's playing this well, this energetically, on D, you can forgive his 0-of-4 shooting. For sure.
Following the loss to the Kings, Howard and coach Stan Van Gundy challenged Orlando's players to sacrifice some of their offense in order to play harder on defense. We saw that dynamic at work tonight. Turkoglu only took 5 shots in 37 minutes. Richardson let it fly 12 times in 39 minutes. Redick played 32 minutes and only put up 12 shots. This is the sort of balance, and willingness to give up one's offense, that Howard and Van Gundy wanted to see.
Holding the Thunder's offense down is no mean feat. They average 110.7 points per 100 possessions, among the best marks in the league. For Orlando to shut that group down speaks about its potential and commitment on that end. Of course, we could see a regression, in terms of effort, in their next game Sunday evening against the Charlotte Bobcats. But if the Magic needed a reminder of what they're capable of when they simply play to their potential on defense, they got it tonight. And that was some championship-level defense.
The Magic also held off a few Thunder rallies, which is encouraging. The team got a big lead, let some of it slip away, but didn't check out of the game at any point. And if Oklahoma City forward Daequan Cook doesn't drill his first four threes, for instance, we're talking about an even bigger blowout.
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"PANIC! The Magic suck! oh....wait a minute...."
This is how capable this team is. This is their potential. Terrific defense, ball movement, penetration to the basket, kickouts for open, in rhythm threes and most of all, constantly feeding the beast. That is how this team wins. When they do this, they can beat absolutely anyone.
And before I hear things like, “They didn’t have Perk”, please stop. This OKC team wouldn’t be any better offensively tonight with Perkins. He’s a good defender when in a good defensive system. How is he out of that system? No idea, probably still decent. But Dwight still dominated him in Boston. The key is the Magic defense. That’s what wins them games.
Im down with OPP, yeah you know me!
http://www.twitter.com/JShannonhouse3
http://www.twitter.com/Amway_Get_Loud
by JeffShann3 on Feb 25, 2011 11:25 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Great points.
If I could rec from my iPhone, I would.
ORL★NDO, our time will come.
by magic12ball on Feb 26, 2011 1:24 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
I agree with you buuut on the perk topic:
He is an outstanding rebounder and Dwight wouldn’t have had as many rebounds, especially the offensive sort.
http://borntohustleroses.blogspot.com/
I would bring Clark in behind Bass and have Ryan slide to back up 3 more behind Turk
if we’re not going to play Q Rich any more.
Anderson is not a tweener.
He is a power forward. That is it. Maybe can play some 5, but he is a center. If you want Clark backing up Turk, I can live with that but Anderson is not a 3. Not even close. Remotely.Neither is Bass just in case.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
Like Mateo said, Ryan doesnt stand a chance at guarding 3's
Clark can however
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 7:24 PM EST up reply actions
Thank God
I’ve always known we’re still capable of wins like this, but it’s nice for them to go out there and prove it every now and then.
by BlueSkyOneCloud on Feb 25, 2011 11:27 PM EST reply actions
And to Evan's point about the pick-and-roll defense....
I’m reminded of Andre Iguodala’s comments about Howard a couple years back: “It’s like he can guard two guys at once. He can guard his guy and the guy coming off the pick-and-roll, which is almost impossible to do…”
Im down with OPP, yeah you know me!
http://www.twitter.com/JShannonhouse3
http://www.twitter.com/Amway_Get_Loud
Defense=Effort.
It’s in the dictionary under D E F E N S E. I may be wrong but I doubt it. Anyways, someone said we need an x factor on defense. Clark can that defensive x factor. I know Durant was slightly injured, but the dude still had 26 and 16 I think. But he was not his efficiet self. Worked hard to get that. Clark was fantastic on him. And him adding the weight means he will not back down from the likes of LeBum LeChicken or Paulina Pierce. I love this kid. Let him get his confidence going and his shots will start to fall. Truly believe he can cover the 3-4-5 on the court.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
HAHAHAHA, To the person who said that the Knicks were better- I present to you the Cleveland Cavs.
People stop this dance, Say damn this persons fascinatin'
We blowin' dro up in the air, You smell it?
That's the fragrance, I got the focus, got the heart
And I got the patience
We have lost to Detroit and Sacramento
We really Shouldnt be laughing.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
Every team has bad losses.
I recall the Magic beating the Jordan-era bulls at least once or twice in the pre-Shaq era.
I also recall the Magic beating a bunch of top teams this year.
If the Knicks start doing that, let me know. Since the trade, the Knicks have lost to Cleveland and barely beat Milwaukee. It’s not a good sign…
Bass and sharks are BOTH fish.
This was a great bounce back win!
I was very pleased to see it to say the least. Dwight was an absolute freak tonight!
Sons of Plunder
It's an illusion to say players sacrifice defense for offense.
You play good defense on one end and move to the other. The same amount of shots are still there. If a player takes less shots than normal it may just because he’s smart enough to realize others have a better shot. Maybe that ’s why Turk had 10 assists and zero turnovers.
J-Rich is the guy SVG was probably addressing
He has been very inefficient in the past several games while playing piss poor defense
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:21 PM EST up reply actions
To me J Rich is the key.
Come playoff time we know what we will get Meer and Dwight. Turk will be good to great every other game. But J Rich is the only player on the wing who can iso, drive to the rim, post up, and shoot the 3. He needs to be the elite wing player. I don’t really care if he creates for others that much because we have Turk and Jameer create for others.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
J-Rich=J-Rich
J-Rich is more of a pure jumpshooter, he can post up but he never positions himself down low (mostly b/c Howard is working in the post.). He can’t isolate himself and drive to the rim like Kobe, LeBron, or Wade. He was great to PHX b/c Nash would set him up to score, the same thing Meer and Turk will do here.
Also to the Ryno support group
Don’t be concerned. Tonight was a matchup nightmare for him. Plus they went small and Stan went with Jameer, JJ, J Rich, and Turk. So he will be fine. He is not in a dog house. Neither is Bass. Superboy better matchup.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
talking about effot,
they want most of their energy to go defensive
Ryno has been pissing me off recently anyway
He has stopped attacking the basket recently
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:22 PM EST up reply actions
Truly a statement win tonight.
The Magic announced to league tonight, fear us.
They read my letter
they took what Boston did personal. Boston said we do not fear you guys.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
Tonight's win was what we needed
But we’re going to need this effort next week with Knicks, Heat, Bulls all in a row. Those 3 games will tell me more about this team than just a win tonight in an obvious spot.
What's obvious about it?
The Thunder are a quality team.
by eltharion_doa on Feb 26, 2011 12:10 AM EST up reply actions
Plenty obvious
1. Teams usually respond when getting called out by Star player and Coach
2. Thunder traded their starting PF/C two days ago, so playing short handed
3. Emotional letdown for Thunder was natural considering personal relationship of Jeff Green to rest of core of team
4. Sandwich game for Thunder: tough emotional loss to SA on Wednesday. Travel to Orlando. Back home Sunday for the Lakers.
Not saying it’s not a good win for us, but we needed this one like we needed the Lakers game. No matter how good/poorly teams are playing, this is one the Magic should have won. Still a good win, and a credit to us for getting it done.
Nenad sucks
i dont think him or Perkins wuld have made much of a difference as Howard was unstoppable
*shrug*
It’s unlikely that Perkins would have made enough of a difference in this game to stop the Magic. When they play like this, they really can take out any team in the league. I agree that the real question is consistency. That’s what’s been missing from this group lately. Can they bring the energy like this every night, like other tops teams do, even against lesser opponents?
The game against the Bobcats will be telling, especially since they have that tough week ahead of them. It would be very easy for them to get distracted about the coming Knicks/Heat/Bulls trio, and drop a game to Charlotte…and that’s the kind of thing they can’t afford to do.
If they manage to come out of the coming week on top, they’ve got a few easy games after that. This will again be a test as to whether they can stay focused.
by The BBQ Chicken Madness on Feb 26, 2011 9:38 AM EST up reply actions
Don't go back to far. We play another sucky team.
So expect a half assed first quarter.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
Very good writeup
But gotta say Jason Richardson “maded five three pointers” from first paragraph CLASSIC.
Fan of Magic (99-00), Gators (06-07), & Rays (08-09)
Troy Hudson & Keith Bogans' Biggest Fan
I think you meant Earl Clark logged 22 minutes off the bench, not 22 points.
I missed most of the game and momentarily freaked out when I read that haha
"It's difficult to win when you're outscored in every quarter." -Bill Walton
by betterthanburke on Feb 26, 2011 12:31 AM EST reply actions
Well, at the pace he was going, he could have scored 22.
The Magic just would have needed to give him 28 shots and 56 FT attempts to get him there.
Seriously, what happened — did garbage time start in the second quarter? Did Stan proceed to take the phrase “garbage time” literally and put in Clark?
Ugh, just ugh.
Bass and sharks are BOTH fish.
Clark played more minutes (22) than Bass (13) and Anderson (4) combined
I know his stat line didn’t look good (0 for 4 shooting, 3 for 8 on FTs), but he seemed to play well defensively (except when he fouled an OKC player taking a three) and showed his trademark hustle.
I doubt that Coach Van Gundy would have played him as long as he did if he didn’t feel that Clark was making a positive impact on the game.
Chicago Bears... 2010 NFC Conference runners-up
Chicago Blackhawks... 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Champions
Orlando Magic... 2009 Eastern Conference Champions
by Mike from Illinois on Feb 26, 2011 1:03 AM EST up reply actions
Well...
…in addition to his unimaginably terrible shooting, he had only 2 defensive rebounds in 22 minutes, no assists and 4 fouls.
Oh, and the Magic happened to be -5 while he was on the floor… in a game the Magic won by 23. So whatever his intangibles were, it looks like his tangibles may have overwhelmed them.
(Bass, in 13 minutes… 6 points on 60% TS, 6 rebounds (5 defensive)… no assists, but this is Bass. And the Magic were +10.)
Bass and sharks are BOTH fish.
Like you said, Clark's game stats were not impressive
…very inefficient, to be sure; but Coach Van Gundy liked how Clark was playing nonetheless, especially on the defensive side with the energy he brought… even Evan said in his recap that Clark’s 0 for 4 shooting can be forgiven because of how he played D.
I am surprised he played Bass as little as he did, though. Maybe SVG had an explanation after the game.
Chicago Bears... 2010 NFC Conference runners-up
Chicago Blackhawks... 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Champions
Orlando Magic... 2009 Eastern Conference Champions
by Mike from Illinois on Feb 26, 2011 1:23 AM EST up reply actions
Ugh.
He just seems to me like one of those terminally inefficient but athletic players whose only skill is that they look good being awful. A poor man’s Anthony Randolph. (Well, I think Anthony Randolph is the poor man’s Anthony Randolph, actually. But you know what I mean.)
I would believe he was contributing off the scoreboard if the times he was on the court didn’t seem to be the times the Magic were getting outplayed. The numbers show that the Magic won by 23… and that they were +28 in the 26 minutes Clark was off the court. And it looked like Bass and Anderson were both having decent games in limited minutes. (Though of course Anderson’s minutes were so limited as to be kind of meaningless.)
I mean, you can excuse the scoring for D, okay. But once you start excusing the scoring, AND the rebounding, AND the passing, AND the fact that the Magic were losing while he was on the court, while ignoring the fact that the Magic have two other PFs who can do most of those things and aren’t blatant liabilities on D…
…well, it didn’t hurt us this time. So good news on that.
Bass and sharks are BOTH fish.
SVG had to take Clark out of the game in the fourth with the game still in doubt
With about 7 minutes remaining and the Magic ahead by 11, Clark took a long two which missed, and two OKC possessions later, he fouled Daequan Cook, who was attempting a three. Fortunately for the Magic, Cook only made 1 of the 3 FTs which made the score 90-80 Magic with about 6 1/2 minutes left.
Clark was taken out, the Magic go on a 20-8 run to put the game away, and Clark was put back in for the final 1:30 of garbage time.
Chicago Bears... 2010 NFC Conference runners-up
Chicago Blackhawks... 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Champions
Orlando Magic... 2009 Eastern Conference Champions
by Mike from Illinois on Feb 26, 2011 2:46 AM EST up reply actions
I was at the game last night.
Clark looked really good.
He was actively poking at lose balls and getting his arms in the passing lanes. He played much better than his stats suggested. The foul on the 3 was actually a clean block on the ball.
Great win.
I give a lot of credit to Jameer for his defense on Westbrook tonight who couldn’t get anything going. Also give it up to Turk who was personally responsible for at least 10 of Howard’s 40. When we give him the ball at the three point line and let him work, I don’t think we have a more lethal passer on this squad.
Let’s hope we can build some momentum now.
by Hoop Dreams 2 on Feb 26, 2011 8:15 AM EST up reply actions
I agree Clark did some good things in the game, even though it wasn't reflected in his stats
Chicago Bears... 2010 NFC Conference runners-up
Chicago Blackhawks... 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Champions
Orlando Magic... 2009 Eastern Conference Champions
by Mike from Illinois on Feb 26, 2011 8:07 PM EST up reply actions
You've admitted to not watching the game,
and you’re taking plus/minus from one game? That’s not how this work. His hustle was key on defense as once he started poking for steals and being a nuisance Jameer did as well, even going for a diving steal (which I rarely have seen from him).
It was obvious, from everyone who watched, that he made a positive contribution while on the floor.
http://borntohustleroses.blogspot.com/
this
Clarks play on defense is a very positive sign moving forward. Right now he is the only player on the roster that has any chance of slowing down the young, athletic SF’s in the league
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
they went to a small lineup
do you reallty think Bass and Anderson can gueard Durant?? thats why clark played so much… he and hedo split time at the 4
Speaking of which
Durant rebounded out of his mind last night
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:37 PM EST up reply actions
I guess you didn't watch the game if you don't think Clark made a positive contribution
"Evan!
Unban me from the OPP!"...........David Polega
by AB's triple double on Feb 26, 2011 1:11 AM EST up reply actions
I did miss the game.
But I think the numbers show pretty clearly that whatever the Magic did well was adjacent to what Clark did, and mostly happened where he was safely on the bench where he belongs.
Bass and sharks are BOTH fish.
The facts are not always "in the numbers"
That’s one thing that I’ve occasionally been concerned about on this site. People’s numbers and wacky stats trumping what they saw on the court… or in this case what they didn’t even watch but still spoke out about.
Crushing weaker minds since 1978
Over 1 million served.
by Matty B on Feb 26, 2011 1:37 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Eh.
I feel that “your eyes” can fool you way more than stats can. It’s natural to focus on a few spectacular moments… the human brain is not good at keeping close track of an entire body of work, especially when it’s not trying to.
You didn’t go into the game thinking, “okay, I’m going to watch Clark and keep track of everything he does.” You saw two or three plays he made. He probably had a couple impressive plays and stayed out of the way the rest of the time. I’m not disputing that.
And in some cases, it’s hard to “see” the things he’s doing wrong… you can watch a player all game, and not see that he didn’t get defensive rebounds. You can’t observe what isn’t there.
The stats don’t show everything, but what they DO show, they show all of. The difference between the stats and “I feel like THIS is what happened” is like the difference between a stationary video camera placed on a street corner and a drunk man wandering the city with a disposable camera.
A full record of what actually happened, even if it leaves out some subjective stuff, is a lot less “wacky” than the faulty memory of a single observer. This isn’t the dunk contest — basketball isn’t scored by subjective stuff. It’s scored by who manages to put the ball in the hoop, get possessions for his team, etc.
And all the hard evidence, both in terms of individual stats and in terms of the team’s performance while he was on the court, suggests that Clark didn’t do much of that tonight.
Bass and sharks are BOTH fish.
Enough of this back and forth...
To everybody who SAW the game, Clark did a good job on D. Period.
And you can rationalize this as you like.
Fair enough.
Earl Clark is the PF version of Corey Brewer. I’ll concede that, just like the Timberwolves conceded the actual Corey Brewer to New York.
Bass and sharks are BOTH fish.
I know his stats were bad. But he was fantastic
Kind of how Dwight only made one field goal against Boston on Christmas, but was by far the best player on the court. I understand what you mean about those inefficient players, but usually they tend to bring defensive intensity. I actually would have liked Randolph. When we have enough offense here sometimes you need those guys who don’t mind getting dirty. Our eyes and stats can both deceive us. I wouldn’t lie to you, Clark had a fantastic night. This was a bad matchup night for Bass and Anderson. Literally no one for them to defend.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
"on the bench were he belongs"
I guess you know his capabilities better than SVG. Would you have rather seen Anderson in there to get destroyed by Durant? You know, since Anderson has more athleticism and can guard quick players.
Trying to defend your point when you didn’t even watch the game is pretty weak, regardless of what the stats say.
"Evan!
Unban me from the OPP!"...........David Polega
by AB's triple double on Feb 26, 2011 10:17 AM EST up reply actions
Let's all breathe a little bit.
IF you look at his perspective Clark offensive shooting was bad. I get what he says, because at least he is presenting an argument with stats instead of personal bias(like some others). Again i see what he is saying, but when we you watch the game you see the impact of Clark. He hustled, was on the ground, got called for a foul when he clearly blocked Durant, etc. Right now he is right, Clark is a liability on offense, but you can see that he has a nice looking shot, and it will only get better with time. Like I mentioned earlier, just because he plays the 3 or 4, his progression to me is going to be along the lines of Courtney Lee. He is a bigger Courtney Lee.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
Two good things about his stats no one has mentioned.
First, while he didn’t shoot well at the free throw line, he actually got there 8 times in 22 minutes. Getting to the line that frequently is good.
Second, he only took 4 shots. Seems to me he realizes he’s not a great scorer and he’s trying to contribute in ways a lot of guys don’t. I wish he’d teach Arenas how to shoot less. For the record, Arenas shot 2-11 in only 17 minutes. I don’t see any complaints about that.
For those interested in what SVG thinks about Clark, watch last nights post game interview over on the official site. Van Gundy talks extensively about him. Good listen.
I was literally going to say everything you just said.
Literally. I watched the press conference and what Dwight said. They love him. The 4 shots was a point I was going to make. He also only takes open shots. Rarely contested shots(Bass I am looking at you) and drives to the rim a whole bunch(Anderson does not take advantage of his ability to do this). Now Bass and Anderson are better offensive players, but I think Clark can get to their level offensively while being superior than both on defense. It is just takes time. It takes like 15, 20, 25 games. A question I ask Magic fans, if we were patient with JJ, Courtney, Bass, and Anderson why can we not be patient with Earl. Will he be a superstar, doubtful, but T Mac took a while to develop into a stud, I know he came out of high school, but you can develop into a star. But I don’t think he needs to be a star. Defend the opposing teams best wing player and make shots, because no one will respect you.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
Clark's going to need more like 100, 150 games
And about a season and a half in the gym. He’s just not a good finisher with a basketball, from range, around the rim, or at the line.
by eltharion_doa on Feb 26, 2011 11:27 AM EST up reply actions
I think he just needs more time practicing against our team
and he’ll contribute more effectively.
We’ll probably start to see what sort of player he is really going to be next year.
I guess that's the way the whole durned human comedy keeps perpetuatin' itself.
Considering he's been benched by the Suns since being drafted
He’s way behind the normal learning curve, so it’s to be expected that he’s still ridiculously raw.
Orton’s probably going to go through a very similar and long learning process when he finally gets healthy. You can’t rush the real projects.
by eltharion_doa on Feb 26, 2011 11:30 AM EST up reply actions
It's not good if you're missing shots, frankly
Getting to the line is only an advantage if you’re scoring points at the line. Any team in the NBA will happily take 3 points allowed from every 4 possessions by fouling every time up the court.
In general, Clark played well, but his finishing at the rim is genuinely awful when there’s even the slightly hint of challenge and obviously his free throw shooting is pretty bad too.
by eltharion_doa on Feb 26, 2011 11:25 AM EST up reply actions
Talking about how bad Arenas is just
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:45 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
omg yay!! I'm so proud of our boys!
sad I didn’t get to see the game :(
Excuse me while I whip this out.
What was more interesting to do on a Friday night than staying at home and watching TV
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:46 PM EST up reply actions
hanging out with friends... :|
kinda wish I’d stayed in, tbh
Excuse me while I whip this out.
by TheGiantSquid on Feb 26, 2011 9:55 PM EST up reply actions
To further illustrate how well the Magic did defensively...
Only one Thunder player shot 50%… Daequan Cook at 5 of 10.
The 33.3% that OKC shot for the game was the third worst percentage in a game for the Thunder since moving to Oklahoma City in 2008.
The Magic also did a terrific job taking care of the ball, as the Thunder were credited with just one steal for the game. This ties for second the Magic franchise record for fewest steals in a game by a Magic opponent.
This was the first time since the Thunder moved to Oklahoma City that they had fewer than two steals in a game.
Dwight Howard’s 16 field goals ties his career high for most field goals in a game, and was the third time in his career that he has scored 40+ points in a game in the regular season.
Chicago Bears... 2010 NFC Conference runners-up
Chicago Blackhawks... 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Champions
Orlando Magic... 2009 Eastern Conference Champions
by Mike from Illinois on Feb 26, 2011 1:13 AM EST reply actions
Evan, based on what you have seen from Clark tonight...
Do you think he could handle guarding KG at the 4 or he still too weak to do so?
All KG does is shoot jumpers, so he could probably handle him on the ball.
But away from it, when KG cuts to the basket and gets a brilliant feed?
I dunno.
Can you see him MAYBE blossoming into an Ariza type?
..at least on the hustle end of things?
ORL★NDO, our time will come.
by magic12ball on Feb 26, 2011 2:02 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
His learning process to me is more Courtney Lee than Bass or Anderson.
Bass and Anderson are more offensive players. Clark’s process eerily reminds of Lee. We all forget when Lee first played he could not make anything. Sometimes you gotta go through growing pains. His individual defense was fantastic(except for the Cook foul.) Also don’t remember to many help rotations so he is working hard.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
SVG probably has told Clark the only way he see's the court is if he gives his all on the defensive side of the ball
its no wonder that PHX coaches essentially gave up on him. His isnt going to be great on the offensive side of the ball. He does have some potential on defense though
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:52 PM EST up reply actions
Earl Clark is awesome.
…wherever he’s going with that mini-fro (braids, dreads, Brian Grant dreads, Brad Miller braids), I’m down with that too.
ORL★NDO, our time will come.
by magic12ball on Feb 26, 2011 2:04 AM EST via mobile reply actions
JJ and Clark are my favorite Magic players...
…hair-wise.
It’s awesome when they get subbed in together.
by Hoop Dreams 2 on Feb 26, 2011 8:18 AM EST up reply actions
I saw that Daniel Orton is trying to bogart his look
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:53 PM EST up reply actions
He's got to clean up his image...
if he doesn’t want to be considered the worst draft pick in NBA history.
I definetly like his shved head look better
Guy looked like a 7 ft. tall Russel Westbrook
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 7:28 PM EST up reply actions
This team is gonna drive me nuts this season.
More of this please !
Don't mind my spelling. I'm a Typo Master.
This win would've been more impressive had we easily beaten the Kings.
As it stands in the big picture, it’s a good home win that only affirms our inconsistency – this was the upside.
On a side note, I’ve missed the last 3 Magic victories. It’s been a while since I’ve seen happy faces in the Magic bench.
The Sleeping Giant.........Really?
I would love that Gilbert Arenas were at least the 60% of the player that he used to be.
When the sleeping giant gonna wake up? Hopefully sooner than later because that is the only way that Orlando would be a contender once again.
They just beat one of the best teams in the West without much contribution from Gilbert. He is absolutely not the "only way that Orlando would be a contender again"
by MagicMark on Feb 26, 2011 10:57 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Exactly
If Clark can continue to help on defense on the best wings, that will make more of an impact than Gil. But let’s be real, we are going to go as far as Dwight takes us. If the supporting cast can just play to their potential, we are one of the best teams. But Gil can go 0-11 and we can still win. Gil does not matter. People want to type, write, and say on TV he matters, but that is only to cause controversy. They have to generate discussions. If Jameer plays solid, if Turk passes like he can, and if J Rich can score like he can, then we have a team that fits everywhere. That is what was so great about the 09 team. They fit. No one duplicates themselves. This team fits just as good, but needs to be consistent.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
It cracks me up that people are referring to Gilbert Arenas as "the sleeping giant." Shouldn't he at least be "the sleeping zero" or something?
Or even, “the sleeping somewhat tall but not overly so headcase?”
I guess that's the way the whole durned human comedy keeps perpetuatin' itself.
Yeah. I got that. And mine was also meant to be in jest.
I guess that's the way the whole durned human comedy keeps perpetuatin' itself.
"The sleeping giant" is Otis' term.
It’s probably what he also used when pitching the guys who write the checks to go along with the trade too.
"We just want to chill" - Chris Bosh.
Proud Jameer and Rashard apologist since '07
(Serious post-not sarcasom) Wow. I wasn't aware of that. Thanks for the information.
I am not in the “Otis is an absolute idiot” or the “All of Otis’ moves have been sound, solid decisons camp,” but knowing he used that terminology to refer to Gilbert Arenas, has, for some reason, lowered my estimation of our GM.
I could see him saying, “look, this guy was a solid player once, and I think that he can get it back and give us a tremendous advantage” is one thing, but “sleeping giant?”
That’s just a stupid way to pitch a player, or any product, unless you have some pretty unreal insider information.
I guess that's the way the whole durned human comedy keeps perpetuatin' itself.
*sarcasm. ^*$^#$ lack of an edit button.
I guess that's the way the whole durned human comedy keeps perpetuatin' itself.
Thank you OPP
First let me say thank Evan and all the true Magic fans for the hours of enjoyment I get on the OPP. Thank God for a quality win last night after a mental and defensive let down against the kings. I have a question for all of the OPP nation , is it me or do the so-called fans that post on our local newspaper site seem to suck ?
by talesis on Feb 26, 2011 10:00 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
That's true.
Same with ESPN.com comments. They’re all awful.
"We just want to chill" - Chris Bosh.
Proud Jameer and Rashard apologist since '07
The Sentinel has actually gotten WORSE, believe it or not
Even worse than ESPN – and that is saying something. Truly terrible.
The plural of "anecdote" isn't "data."
Is it me or does
the NBA careless about Dwight? Collison and the boys punished Dwight all night long and it resulted in D12 getting a tech. Gil also got abused but I’m guessing since he hasn’t played well he doesn’t get star treament anymore. Also question for you Evan would we be better sutied to pick up another combo project player like Dominic McGuire and a big or just a big? I think a D Mac would be a nice player to develop for the futher and with his size at 6’9 he could be a very good defensive player
I wouldn't say the NBA moreso the refs.
But Collison should have got a T for pushing Dwight.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
Perk plays D12 pretty
physical but collison just turned to WWE after he picked up the first couple of fouls and D12 got rolling offensively. On a brighter note Gil looked good driving to the basket but he just doesn’t have the lift yet but overall he looks good
by magicjunky2 on Feb 26, 2011 10:57 AM EST up reply actions
Stat wise i could put up
better numbers but I meant physically. There was a period i believe in the 2nd or 3rd where he got pissed and attacked the basket over and over again til he got a call.
by magicjunky2 on Feb 26, 2011 11:03 AM EST up reply actions
He's definitely attacked the basket more over the last 2 games
But statistically, the past two have been among the worse games he’s had in a Magic uniform.
Looked BETTER
Not all the way there, but arenas is a sleeping giant. Let’s just hope somebody wakes him up soon. I didn’t like his decision making on the fast breaks when trying for risky passes so I hope SVG talks to him, but give him credit for driving and getting to the rim and pulling extra defenders leaving Dwight open for the put back….they should count those as assists if as someone said his shot misses should be counted as turnovers.
Arenas has the ability to shoot great. Not sure what has been holding him back (please don’t reply knees, confidence etc. We have already heard that). If Arenas wants to try and continue playing in NBA he will have to overcome this adversity!!
by OtownMagicFan on Feb 26, 2011 11:27 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Arenas does not have the ability to shoot great. He has *never* shot the ball great.
He is a streak shooter, and can certainly make shots, but the only way he will have anything resembling efficiency is if he shoots a ton of freethrows, and it certainly doesn’t look like he is capable of doing that.
Good Shooter
He is a good shooter because he has the shooters work ethic. Putting in the time and effort to shoot great. He is viewed as streaky because of his choices are not the best sometimes, but he CAN be a good shooter. He is essentially learning all over again how to be an NBA player since moving to Orl. I have confidence he will break out since the Magic can win( reg games) without a significant contribution from him if They play D. This takes the pressure off now.
by OtownMagicFan on Feb 26, 2011 11:34 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Look I know Gil is terrible right now
But he cannot buy a foul call. Watch every time he took it to the rim, he was getting hacked. If that was Wade, LeBron, or Kobe, they get 17 free throw attempts. That is what no one realizes, Gil was a great scorer before because he went to the free throw line 10-12 times a game. He just can not get any foul calls. If gets even half the calls, he takes about 6-8 free throws. Look I know he is playing terrible, take your hatred out and you see a guy who: his coach hates him, players probably blame him for every loss, papers and TV constantly talk about how much he sucks, fans hate him, his wife or whatever she is is causing him a headache, his knees do not allow him to be what he was before, replaced a quiet, great locker room guy. His total joy for basketball is gone right now. No one will mention that he does pass pretty good, he is trying as hard as he can, he does rebound pretty decently. Last night he had a blocked shot and went to the court to try and grab a loose ball. Earl Clark and Bass do that, they get a standing ovation, he does it people hate on him more. I know he makes what he makes, but just try and put yourself in his position.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
by Mateo9399 on Feb 26, 2011 12:01 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
With all due respect to him
Anybody can work hard and suck tremendously. The problem with Gil isn’t his effort or that everyone hates him or his personal life – it’s that, despite being surrounded by players who can hit shots, he insists on taking awful shot after awful shot after awful shot himself.
Nobody would care if he was shooting 1-4 in 20 minutes, getting 4 or 5 assists and hustling on defense. Instead he’s letting guys blow by him and shooting 2-11. That’s why he gets criticised – because he’s making awful decisions and wasting Magic possessions.
by eltharion_doa on Feb 26, 2011 11:44 PM EST up reply actions
Yep... I liked his 4 assists and 1 blocked shot, but not his 2 for 11 shooting
Chicago Bears... 2010 NFC Conference runners-up
Chicago Blackhawks... 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Champions
Orlando Magic... 2009 Eastern Conference Champions
by Mike from Illinois on Feb 27, 2011 12:22 AM EST up reply actions
He is certainly shooting far too frequently given his percentage
The plural of "anecdote" isn't "data."
refs have vendetta towards Dwight, it was rumored earlier in the year
However, you can tell the big guy has toned down expressing his emotions. He still will never get the benefit of the doubt though, but he will start to get his more. The dude is becoming a freak right in front of our eyes.
by MasterofMagic on Feb 26, 2011 10:56 AM EST up reply actions
It was a block fest last night.
Also quick note on Earl, Jameer missed him twice for ally oops. Watching the game again, late in the third, he ran hard and was missed both times for ally oops. SVG was right in the press conference, they could have played even better than what the stats show last night. Could easily have scored 120-130 points last night.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
True. Look what we did with 3 of the seven players shooting normal to well
Granted it was the Thunder, but it was still impressive considering D12, Meer, J-Rich and Redick were the only ones shooting well, though Turk seemed to be in lob mode.
Arenas needs to hurry up and shoot himself (out of this slump).
I'm convinced Jameer's size doesnt allow him to see the floor completely
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 1:59 PM EST up reply actions
Agree. But we should all know that by now.
I don’t get why people get on him for being short.
Roll Bass and War Ryno for me
It is only because he is short, but you knew that.
Okay, a simple "wrong" would've done just fine.
Hello, handsome, is that a ten-gallon hat or are you just enjoying the show?
by Both_Teams_Played_ on Feb 26, 2011 2:34 PM EST up reply actions
I'd rather have a good player
Who doesn’t see the floor completely over a taller, worse one.
by eltharion_doa on Feb 26, 2011 11:45 PM EST up reply actions
In a little OT: I didn't know the Magic Fanbase was called "True Blue Nation", kinda nice actually.
People stop this dance, Say damn this persons fascinatin'
We blowin' dro up in the air, You smell it?
That's the fragrance, I got the focus, got the heart
And I got the patience
Have to concur with everyone here.
Clark’s raw numbers weren’t pretty, but he made a positive impact out there. Was extremely disruptive on defense while playing with the type of heart and hustle that’s becoming standard practice for him.
I write for Magic Basketball and have a Twitter account.
So any wagers on when Howards gets his next tech???
I just hope its after next weekend.
"Evan!
Unban me from the OPP!"...........David Polega
by AB's triple double on Feb 26, 2011 1:14 PM EST reply actions
I didnt see the tech
What he do?
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
He appeared to swing an arm a Collison as he fell away after being hacked.
It did not look intentional to me, but I may be prejudiced.
Okay, a simple "wrong" would've done just fine.
Hello, handsome, is that a ten-gallon hat or are you just enjoying the show?
by Both_Teams_Played_ on Feb 26, 2011 2:36 PM EST up reply actions
It was definitely intentional. Happened way past his retaining of balance.
http://borntohustleroses.blogspot.com/
Def on purpose
Replay showed collison hit his face so Dwight returned the favor…y collison didn’t get a tech also seems biased to me. Just cause Dwight is better doesn’t mean you get a free hack.
by OtownMagicFan on Feb 26, 2011 3:29 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Thats unfortunate
In Dwights halftime interview he stated that OKC is trying to get under his skin with their play and he cant fall for it… Needs to take his own advice
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 7:30 PM EST up reply actions
I think it was probably on purpose
But I could see him argue that he was going for the ball coming through the net.
Even still, how is it that the flagrant foul rules about hitting people above the shoulders is NEVER EVER enforced against Dwight Howard’s defenders? They ROUTINELY make a play on his face and it never gets a 2nd glance.
I know the league doesn’t view him as making them as much money as Lebron James but is his health and well being not worth protecting a little?
The plural of "anecdote" isn't "data."
Great win!
I know the Thunder have a transition period due to the trades but it was still a good win anyway. Hopefully the Magic can beat teams of all levels more consistently rather than during one stretch, lose to all the winning teams while winning against all the losing teams, and vice versa.
A lot of positives from that game
But the one thing that drives me nuts is how badly off the mark Gilbert still is… his shots arent even close to the rim… It makes no sense as to how bad his shot has gotten…
I think Hubby Brown nailed it when he said he must still be having knee problems cause he gets no lift on his jumper…. Memo to Magic sit this guy down and get him healthy
In other breaking news, water is wet!
Okay, a simple "wrong" would've done just fine.
Hello, handsome, is that a ten-gallon hat or are you just enjoying the show?
by Both_Teams_Played_ on Feb 26, 2011 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
Though as we saw a few times, Dwight was able to get the putback dunk.
Compared to the off-balance jump shot and the three pointer, it’s the least worse/worst? shot Gil can take. Heck, a not-so-smart defender could even foul him.
Why wouldnt you just have Hedo drive the lane?
Who can finish and get a better angle off the miss. We need to phase out our backup PG’s altogether. Both Duhon and Arenas are severe liabilities.
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 7:40 PM EST up reply actions
Gil game was a
combo of quickness talent and above average bball IQ. He is still trying to be the explosive lighting quick Gil but he could be a very good floor general IMO. If i were otis i would sit Gil down and say we need you to be smat with the ball and use your court vision to find shooters and attack the rim.
He's already doing that. Except he shouldn't be taking 11 shots a game.
Though on the flipside, I suppose opposing teams are giving him the shot – soon enough they’ll be doing a Rondo/Westbrook on him where they will dare him to take the jump shot.
He doesnt have the quickness to compensate
SVG needs to find a way limit Arenas and Duhon’s use. The best way is making Hedo essentially the sole backup ball handler when Nelson isnt in the game. Just put JJ and Clark in with Hedo and run the sets with Hedo at point
I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?
by Souwantmyname on Feb 26, 2011 10:18 PM EST up reply actions
I don't know if amongst the 500 comments this has been said but...
That picture of Dwight blocking Durant is amazing. It’s been a while since Dwight’s hosted a block party
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