The Celtics will be without Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo once again tonight, but that didn't seem to matter the last time when the Celtics embarrassed the Magic 87-56. Do I see that happening again? Sorry, I don't, you have to think the Magic are going to come out and show some kind of pride.
Paul Pierce is obviously going to be the key tonight, as he is going to have to carry the offense once again. He has looked a lot more in shape lately, and that has translated into us seeing the Pierce we are all used to. It also sounds like the Celtics will get Mickael Pietrus, who has not only played great defense for the Celtics but has been a nice offensive spark off the bench. Also, Chris Wilcox (left calf) and Keyon Dooling (right knee) sound like they will be on the court tonight.
Looks for Stiemsma and O'Neal to get a bunch of fouls called on them once again, as the best defense against Howard is to keep sending him to the line.
Like I said, this is a huge pride game for the Magic, so this game will be a lot closer, but I still see the Celtics pulling it off especially after a couple days of rest.
Celtics 88-84
Tommy Award: Pierce
Game starts at 8pm