Howard lifts Magic past Timberwolves
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) -- Dwight Howard had 23 points and 14 rebounds, and Rashard Lewis also scored 23 points to lead the Orlando Magic to a 100-89 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night.
Hedo Turkoglu added 22 for the Magic, who have won two of three despite missing their top three guards with injuries.
Al Jefferson had 19 to lead the Timberwolves.
The Magic took advantage of the Wolves' 3-of-12 shooting to open the third quarter with a 20-8 run, taking a 64-46 lead with just over three minutes left. Courtney Lee made a layup in the final seconds to give the Magic a 70-50 lead after three quarters.
Orlando's lead grew to as many as 21 in the final period.
Minnesota attacked the Magic backcourt, which is missing two starters and its top reserve. The Wolves started the 6-foot-10 Jefferson at center and replaced normal center Jason Collins, who had started the last eight games, with guard Kevin Ollie.
