The sad reality is that there are few that really expect the Orlando Magic to be able to outlast the Los Angeles Lakers, lead by arguably the best player in the world, Kobe Bryant. Most feel that it's Kobe's time to shine and show the world that he can win a championship without his former partner-in-crime and co-superstar Shaquille O'Neal.
Personally, I like the Orlando Magic in the series, but just like the rest of the sports followers, I have my doubts. Orlando is a dominant team when they play at their own pace, and control the game-tempo; easier said than done against the Lakers, I'm aware. The Magic lack something the Lakers have possessed for over a decade, a "lights-out" shooter. They simply perfect the art of solid, fundamental, team basketball. Position players like Mickael Pietrus, Rafer "Skip to My Lou" Alston, and Courtney Lee do all the little things to perfection, and the Magic's play is a direct image of it. What seems to go untold is that Orlando is keeping up with the Laker's in every category, they've just gotten the short end of the stick in 2 games (excluding their 25-point "get it together... quickly" blowout in Game 1). Magic coach Stan van Gundy can't point out many negatives in the locker room or while watching game film. Every member on this team has played their heart out every second on the court. Dwight Howard is more physical than he's ever been in the low block, Rafer Alston has become a "play-maker" and always seems to make a big play, and Hedo Turkoglu is taking over the offense when necessary. However, LA has gotten the crucial plays to go their way when the game's on the line, that's something the Magic need to find a way to stop (again, easier said than done).
If the Orlando Magic can get everyone to contribute something a little extra on offense and/or defense, continue to have solid games from Dwight Howard, Hedo Turkoglu, and Rashard Lewis, and play THEIR game, I see a victory in Game 5. If the Magic can dig deep and full out a "W" in Los Angeles, they would get something even nicer... a trip back home to Orlando for pivotal Game 6.
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