Orlando---
In a game the Orlando Magic absolutely needed they made a statement and they made it quick. Orlando jumped out to a 20-3 lead in the first quarter, and never looked back.
The game took an unfortunate turn for the Pistons with 8:11 remaining in the first quarter, when point guard Chauncey Billups injured his hamstring after stepping on Jameer Nelson's foot, and never returned.
With Billups out the Pistons struggled to find a leader all night. Rasheed Wallace was constantly in foul trouble and ended with just 11 points and 4 rebounds. Two Pistons had solid games: Richard Hamilton finished with 24 points and 6 rebounds, and Tayshaun Prince had 22 points and 7 rebounds as both helped provide some runs for the Pistons and even closed the game to four points heading into the fourth quarter.
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However, the Magic wouldn't fold this game, and outscored the Pistons 38-17 in the final frame to secure their first victory in the series, and first post-season win against the Pistons in 9 games.
The Magic who were led by Rashard Lewis had a post-season career high 33 points on 11-15 shooting from the field including 5-6 from the 3 point line. Lewis also had 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Dwight Howard finished the game with 20 points 12 rebounds and 6 blocks in another solid outing for the big man.
The big question is will Billups be able to play Saturday? Coach Flip Saunders said he wouldn't know for at least 24 hours, but that they were shooting for him to play in the pivotal game four.
Game 4 will be Saturday at 5:00 PM at Amway Arena in Orlando. The Magic will be looking to tie the series as they head back to Auburn Hills. However, the Pistons will be ready with or without Billups.
Orlando is now 4-0 at home this post-season while Detroit is 2-2 away from the Palace.
The home team has won all 3 games in this series.
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