Wow, talk about an unexpected blowout.

Let me start this out by saying that it was unfortunate that Chauncey Billups went down for Detroit in the 1st quarter. I’m all for having both teams at 100%, and having the truly better team win the series that way. Let’s not forget, though - Brian Cook, who became an important role player off the bench for the Magic before he got injured, is not available until the next round…but hopes the join the team by the middle of this series. The Magic’s bench has been looking pretty weak this series…though, of course, Chauncey’s importance to his team is far greater than Cook’s.

Although Chauncey’s injury was unfortunate, it was clear before he went into the locker room that this game was in control by the Magic from the beginning. They limited turnovers, established Dwight in the post, attacked the rim, made three’s, and defended well throughout the game. Dwight was getting his throughout the game, and taking to the Pistons when he got the chance.

The game started out strong by Jameer: he did exactly what was needed, and built upon what he did last game. He set the tone for his team, and helped them build an early lead. Rashard knocked down 3’s throughout the game, and the whole Magic team shot the 3 ball well, making 11 of 28 three pointers.

Rodney Stuckey had his best playoff game yet - with 18 points, playing in place of Billups. He took advantage of a big size difference between Jameer and himself, and got to line to sink 9 of 9 free throws. Rip Hamilton attempted to lead the team, along with Tayshaun Prince, while Rasheed had an off game and Maxiell struggled against Howard. At one point, the Pistons, led by Hamilton, Prince, and Stuckey, valiantly attempted to make a run at the Magic without their leader on the court with them. However, it was all in vain, as the Magic built onto their lead with 3 pointers and Dwight Howard’s dominance. The bench…well, to be more specific…Keyon Dooling really helped out the Magic during that stretch as well, by knocking down shots and playing some pretty good defense on Hamilton and Stuckey.

Hedo, Rashard, and Jameer combined their abilities to be play makers for the Magic and run the team, and they did a pretty damn good job, too: 15 assists, 3 turnovers; with 1 turnover from each player. The team as a whole took care of the ball well, ending up with only 11 turnovers…compared to 19 in the previous game. That’s a huge turnaround, and if they continue this throughout the series, then the Magic’s outlook for this series looks waaay better than it did after the first two games.

I hope Chauncey Billups is okay, and feels better after this game, because this wouldn’t be a good series without him. I wish him all the best in recovering for next game…or at least by the end of the series.

Also, I feel the need to add that the Hedo to Dwight alley-oop was sick. Pretty much summed up the game in one play: great passing by the Magic players, and great play down low by Dwight.