The Orlando Magic traveled to Houston on Sunday night to take on the surging Rockets, who were led by MVP candidate James Harden. Though the Magic were in control for most of the game and led by 15 as late as midway through the third quarter, there was too much James Harden and not enough Magic leadership down the stretch.
Things looked promising early, as the Magic jumped out to a 34-18 lead after the first quarter. Orlando dominated the glass during that period, led by veteran center Nikola Vucevic, who would go on to finish with 19 points and 17 rebounds, eight of which were offensive.