NBA: Superman Howard outshines Rose in Chicago

With the trade deadline a week away, Dwight Howard reminded the NBA of his value as his Magic beat Chicago Thursday night {Friday morning, Manila time], 99-94.

 

The Bulls were attempting to extend their winning streak to nine at the start of their six-game playing stretch at home where they are 15-2, but the Magic were unstoppable in the first quarter, scoring 37 points to the Bulls' 22. The early lead was enough for Orlando to keep Chicago at bay, even if the Bulls outscored them in the last three quarters, 72-62.

 

Howard pounded the paint for 29 points on 11-19 shooting, adding 18 rebounds and three blocks in 41 minutes of play. Jason Richardson helped the Magic's cause, scoring 18 points on 7-15 shooting. The win comes after an embarassing outing for the Magic, as they blew a 20-point lead Wednesday morning to lose to the league-worst Charlotte Bobcats.

 

Carlos Boozer top-scored for the Bulls with 26 points while Derrick Rose chippen in 17 points and nine assists in the losing effort. Taj Gibson was the only other Bull in double figures with 14, as the rest of the starting five only combined for 17 points. — Reneé A. Fopalan/RSJ, GMA News