What They're Saying: Magic vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 11/12

The Magic make their first official visit to play the Thunder in Oklahoma City tonight. After the game at Memphis earlier this season, Orlando should not be putting this one in the bank yet.

Like the Grizzlies, the Thunder are a young and energetic team with a pretty good scorer. Kevin Durant is probably more talented than Rudy Gay at that. The Magic will have to be on their toes tonight after a disappointing effort Monday against the Trail Blazers.

-Kyle Hightower of The Orlando Sentinel reports on Orlando returning to the road. Last year, the Magic had a better road record than home record. Now they get ready for their first road trip of the season (they head to Dallas and Charlotte next). For Orlando to make it back to the Southeast Division title, the team has to repeat last year's road performance.

-Brian Schmitz of The Orlando Sentinel has word that Dwight Howard might have some sort of nagging injury. I would call Dr. Doobie Howser before Dr. House though. Apparently, it is something that has bothered him since he was 15.

-Schmitz also reports Stan Van Gundy might tinker with the bench more. Expect more Courtney Lee in any event.

-John Denton of Florida Today writes that the Magic could use the upcoming road trip as a way to bond. Last year, the beginning of the schedule was very road heavy -- including a preseason trip to China -- and forced the team to come together quickly. While a three-game road trip is no monumental task (especially against the teams they are playing), it might be what the team needs to turn around and find some consistency.

-Darnell Mayberry of The Oklahoman reports Kevin Durant will be a game-time decision after re-aggravating a preseason ankle injury in Monday's game against Indiana.

-Developing 7-footers is tough -- See Hunter, Steven -- but here is a look at the man that will be guarding Howard tonight. The Thunder like what they see out of Robert Swift, but he is still working to live up to his potential in games, writes Mike Baldwin of The Oklahoman.