Orlando Magic News for May 3rd: Mickael Pietrus Says He'll Play, Mike Woodson Says Jason Collins Will Play, and More

Orlando Magic small forward Mickael Pietrus, who sprained his left ankle during practice Sunday evening, also sat out of practice today. But he promised today that he will play in tomorrow's series opener against the Atlanta Hawks. Orlando will need Pietrus' ace perimeter defense on Hawks All-Star guard Joe Johnson and top reserve Jamal Crawford.

Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel reports that Hawks head coach Mike Woodson plans to enlist little-used backup center Jason Collins "for sure" to help handle Dwight Howard on the interior. Howard scored 21.0 points per game against the Hawks in the regular season, so containing him is a priority.

Here's the second half of my q-and-a exchange with Eddy. It's my turn to answer questions in this installment.

John Hollinger of ESPN Insider says that the NBA's second-round matchups won't be too interesting if recent history is any indication. Of the Magic's upcoming series with the Hawks, he writes, "I would strongly suggest the Hawks win the opener Tuesday, especially since that's probably their best shot to steal one given the rust Orlando should have from an eight-day layoff."

Bret LaGree of Hoopinion says the disparity between the number of long two-pointers the Atlanta Hawks and the Orlando Magic attempt highlights the larger philosophical differences between the two clubs.

Ridiculous Upside's first NBA Mock Draft has the Magic selecting South Florida guard Dominique Jones 29th overall.

Paul Swaney of Stadium Journey reviews the Amway Arena.