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The Orlando Magic face a difficult test tonight from the speedy, high-scoring Golden State Warriors, whom they host tonight at Amway Center. Orlando's complaints are few and far between of late as it's defeated its last five opponents by an average of 12 points per game, but the Warriors' starting backcourt of Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis, which combines for 44.2 points per game, will test its defense. New acquisitions Gilbert Arenas and Jason Richardson have bolstered the team's offense, but have yet to get comfortable at the other end. They, along with Jameer Nelson and J.J. Redick, must work exceptionally hard to keep the Warriors' dynamite guard tandem in front of them.
The Warriors signed David Lee, an All-Star big man, this summer, but still get most of their offense from the outside; Lee is out tonight, leaving Lou Amundson to start. They lack an interior offensive presence, meaning a defense focused on forcing Curry and Ellis to settle for jumpers will be key to a Magic win tonight. Dorell Wright and Reggie Williams can also fill it up from the outside if allowed.
Orlando should have little trouble on offense provided it executes. Golden State is bereft of defensive talent essentially at every position, though it does force turnovers. Should the Magic succeed in exploiting their many mismatches, it should generate plenty of open, good shot attempts.
2010/2011 NBA Season | ||
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13-20 (5-14 road) Lost 1 | 21-12 (12-5 home) Won 5 | |
January 3rd, 2011 | ||
Amway Center | ||
7:00 PM | ||
Sun Sports | ||
Probable Starters | ||
Stephen Curry | PG | Jameer Nelson |
Monta Ellis | SG | Jason Richardson |
Dorell Wright | SF | Hedo Turkoglu |
Vladimir Radmanovic | PF | Brandon Bass |
Lou Amundson | C | Dwight Howard |
2010/11 Advanced Stats | ||
95.1 (T-4th) | Pace | 91.8 (18th) |
106.6 (14th) | ORtg | 106.4 (15th) |
111.2 (28th) | DRtg | 101.5 (4th) |
Game Officials | ||
Steve Javie | ||
Kane Fitzgerald | ||
Leroy Richardson | ||