Magic vs. Nets: 3 score 20 for New Jersey, but Orlando Wins on Late Basket

Devin Harris, Brook Lopez and Travis Outlaw each scored at least 20 points for the New Jersey Nets, but the Orlando Magic prevailed 91-90 after Jameer Nelson scored with just under five seconds left.

Somewhat controversially, Harris missed a half-court heave at the buzzer, although it appeared Nelson fouled him prior to the shot. A call there would have sent Harris to the line with a chance to win.

That was not the difference in the game, however, as New Jersey repeatedly allowed Orlando second chances.

The Magic grabbed 13 offensive rebounds and at least twice had possessions with three shots.

Harris also missed two free throws in the closing minutes of the game.

Much has been made recently of the apparent soft play of Lopez, particularly against Dwight Howard, and he was even benched for most of the fourth quarter against Cleveland on Wednesday.

Lopez bounced back in a big way on Saturday, though, scoring 23 points on 9-of-17 shooting, adding in seven rebounds and two blocks.

Howard was actually outplayed by Lopez, scoring 16 points while in foul trouble, although he did have four offensive rebounds and 10 overall.

Harris was 9-of-15 in the game, going for 26 points, eight assists and six rebounds. Outlaw scored 20 while bringing down seven rebounds and going 4-for-5 on threes.

Orlando had five players with double-digit scoring numbers as Howard, Nelson, Brandon Bass, Vince Carter and Mickael Pietrus all had at least 12.

Bass was also strong on the glass, coming down with eight rebounds.

The Nets clearly would have liked to come away with the win in this one, but they have to feel good about the effort they put forth.

They can stand to improve their rebounding, but they went toe-to-toe with one of the NBA's elite teams, something they had done for stretches at a time this season, never for an entire game as they did against Orlando.

The play of Lopez was especially encouraging, as he showed he would not wilt under criticism and did his best to go right at Howard and any other Orlando defender in his way. His defense was also much improved and getting him going will greatly increase the Nets' chances of competing this year.

The Nets shot 50 percent from the field and 47 percent on threes while holding the Magic to 42 percent shooting and 32 percent from beyond the arc. It was a solid defensive effort and the improved offensive efficiency bodes well for the team going forward.

New Jersey was again without Terrence Williams, as they have been all week. His absence was felt and many Nets fans will feel the team would have won with him available.

He should be back Monday when the Nets travel to the Los Angeles Clippers to begin a four-game, West Coast road trip.