Magic standout guard Arron Afflalo has been telling teammates for days that this is the time when the team can vault itself back into the mix in the shaky Eastern Conference. Veteran point guard Jameer Nelson marveled at how Afflalo’s plan for the Magic to make a move started to take shape with the 83-82 win in Chicago on Monday.
``Arron has been talking about us getting this (Chicago) game and then going home for (six) games and getting rolling on a home stand,’’ said Nelson, who had 14 points, seven assists and five rebounds in Monday’s win. ``It’s always good playing in front of your home fans and getting that energy. You’re comfortable in your own city and own bed, so it’s something we’re looking forward to.’’
Orlando (8-17) opens the longest stretch of games at the Amway Center on Wednesday night against the rebuilding Utah Jazz (6-21). The Magic will then host Sacramento (Saturday), New York (Monday), Detroit (Dec. 27), Atlanta (Dec. 29) and Golden State (Dec. 31). Their next road game: How about 2014?
``We need to go ahead and defend our home court. It’s going to be important for us to get these games because of where we are,’’ said Glen ``Big Baby’’ Davis, who hit the victory-sealing free throws Monday in Chicago. ``We have some very winnable games and we have to get them. But we have to use this momentum (from the Chicago victory) and stay focused.’’
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