Magic embrace rare practice in preparing for Heat

By Kyle Hightower

Associated Press

Published: Tuesday, Feb. 7 2012 3:45 p.m. MST

Los Angeles Clippers' DeAndre Jordan (6) takes a shot as Orlando Magic's Ryan Anderson (33) defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Feb. 6, 2012, in Orlando, Fla.

John Raoux, Associated Press

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Summary

Fresh off an overtime loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, there is no rest for what has been an at times wobbly Orlando Magic team.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Fresh off an overtime loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, there is no rest for what has been an at times wobbly Orlando Magic team.

The Magic held a full contact practice Tuesday for the first time since Jan. 14 and continue a pre-All-Star break schedule that will see them play 20 games in 32 days.

The session was needed as they prepare to host division-leading Heat Wednesday in the first of four regular season meetings.

A key matchup will be between Ryan Anderson and Chris Bosh, who are both having breakout seasons and have been key pieces for their teams so far.

Anderson is averaging career numbers in points per game and 3-point shooting, while Bosh is shooting 50 percent for just the third time in his career.

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