Mavs Take On The Magic Tonight At The AAC

The Mavericks who have lost their last game to OKC are facing the Magic tonight who are on an 8 game winning streak, looking to match their longest streak in franchise history tonight. The last time Orlando lost was to the Mavs, the healthy Mavs.

Tonight will be different as star player Dirk Nowitzki is missing his 7th consecutive game [most consecutive games missed in his career]. The Mavs will also be without their 3rd highest scorer Caron Butler who is out for the rest of the season after having knee surgery.

As for the Magic's inuries, Malik Allen is questionable with a sprained left ankle. Daniel Orton (left knee surgery) and Jason Williams (arthritis in feet) are out until further notice.

Thunder's win Thursday night, gave the Mavs their third loss in their last five games without Dirk.

Orlando beat the Rockets Friday pushing them to their eight straight win.

The Mavericks will take advantage of Dwight Howard's foul troubles, although they are a solid team and can manage the game without him when he sits.

Since the Magic's loss to the Mavs, they have made many new additions to their roster such has Hedo Turkoglu, Gilbert Arenas, Jason Richardson and Earl Clark. These guys have been a great help to Orlando as they've been winning every game since. They came together offensively very quickly but are still looking to improve their defense. The Magic have also been playing former Maverick Brandon Bass alot more who has proven to be a solid player when he Matched Richardson's 18 points against the Rockets. This gives the Mavs even more to focus on in the paint.

"Bass gives them strength, energy, great mid-range shooting, a post presence, a presence on the boards and he's a guy that's always ready. I mean, we knew that when he was here. He's just an extremely hard worker and he loves to play. So, there's no surprise that he's playing well now that he's gotten the opportunity," Carlisle explained.

But we all know who's really in control of the Magic's attack: Dwight Howard. He scored 26 points and 23 rebounds against the Mavs during their last match. Chandler, who is looking for his 3rd consecutive double double, plans to heighten his play at both ends to guard him.

"He's a big fella, he's gonna demand a lot of attention, "Chandler said of Howard. "We know he's gonna get his shots, he's gonna get his attempts. But the thing that we have to do tonight is make it tough for him and try to limit everybody else."

It is obvious that Howard's hook shot has gotten a lot better. It will be important for the Mavs to keep him away from the basket, and be a lot more assertive.

Although it is not completely certain, Dirk hopes to be back for the Mavs' 4-game road trip next week.