Magic Vs. Blazers: Orlando Resists Comeback Bid, Hands Portland Its First Home Loss

The Portland Trail Blazers nearly fought back from a 23-point third quarter deficit to preserve their perfect home record on Wednesday, but the Orlando Magic held on late and closed out a 107-104 victory. Orlando had seven players in double figures, using a balanced attack to slice up Portland's typically stout defense. Dwight Howard scored just 13 points, going 3-12 from the free throw line. But the Magic shot nearly 59 percent from the floor as a team.

Jamal Crawford, LaMarcus Aldridge and Gerald Wallace led a furious fourth quarter comeback for Portland, each scoring nine points, but it just wasn't enough. A 13-2 run pulled Portland to within three points with under three minutes left, but Hedo Turkoglu dropped two quick baskets and Howard hit a free throw to stretch the lead back out to nine, demoralizing the rallying Blazers.

Aldridge finished with 23 points on 10-17 shooting, and Crawford had 24 on 10-17 shooting to pace Portland.

For more on Portland, visit Blazer's Edge. For more on the Magic, visit Orlando Pinstriped Post.