:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/10364729/20130324_ajl_bm1_234.0.jpg)
The Orlando Magic face an exceptionally difficult challenge on Monday when they host the Miami Heat, who have won 26 straight games. Indeed, the Heat's winning streak matches what Orlando has won since March 23rd, 2012, counting the 2012 postseason. Tipoff is set for 7 PM Eastern on Fox Sports Florida in the Orlando market. The Orlando Pinstriped Post GameThread will appear at 5 PM in this StoryStream and on the cover.
Orlando's last time out: The Magic dropped their sixth straight game on Friday at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder, 98-87, despite a career-high 25 points from rookie forward Moe Harkless. Thunder forward Kevin Durant scored 11 of his 25 in the fourth quarter to put OKC over the top. In Friday's loss, Magic swingman Arron Afflalo suffered a hamstring strain which will rule him out for the balance of the 2012/13 season.
Miami's last time out: The Heat dominated the Charlotte Bobcats on Sunday, 109-77, for their 26th consecutive win. Miami outscored the visiting Bobcats, who own the league's worst record, in every period to sceure the easy victory. LeBron James shot 11-of-14 from the floor for 32 points, eight rebounds, 10 assists, three steals, and three blocks. Miami limited Charlotte to 33.7 percent shooting.
The last meeting: James drove left around DeQuan Jones for the game-winning score with 3.2 seconds to play on March 5th as Orlando nearly pulled off the big upset in Miami, which entered the game having won 15 straight. Orlando either led or tied the score from the 6:41 mark of the fourth quarter up until James' winning bucket. Magic center Nikola Vucevic finished with 25 points and 21 rebounds, while Jameer Nelson scored 16 with 14 assists.
Looking for Orlando Magic tickets? Orlando Pinstriped Post has you covered. We invite you to follow Orlando Pinstriped Post on Twitter and like Orlando Pinstriped Post on Facebook.