The Pistons did what their coach wanted them to do and that was control the pace and try to get Dwight Howard in foul trouble. It worked and the Magic lost their first game of the season. The Magic could only muster up 80 points and shot under 36.7% from the floor. It’s only 1 game, but it just goes to show you need to bring it every night in the NBA, because all the teams are talented and can beat you.

The Magic are ailing right too. Vince Carter needs to shut it down and let that ankle heal. The Magic have plenty of perimeter players that can fill Carter’s void well he gets his ankle back to 100%. The bigger concern is Dwight Howard’s shoulder. “It’s just very, very sore, but it is hard when you get hit so hard every night,” Howard said. “I’m a big guy, but it still hurts when I’m getting hit this much. It’s getting worse, but I have to keep my composure and try not to complain. The last two games, though, I’ve been very close to going off.” I feel sorry for the guy he goes off on, but I’m hoping it’s Shaq.

It doesn’t get any easier Wednesday night as the Magic play host to the Suns. They aren’t physical, but their league leading 114 points a game means they lke to run up and down the court. They are also undefeated at 4 – 0. I hope Jameer can shake off this game, because Steve Nash will make him look silly, if plays like he did against the Pistons.