Howard's free-throw shooting lifts Magic in Game 3 News Cleveland Cavaliers

Game Time: Magic 99, Cavaliers 89

Question: How was it possible that Orlando won despite playing such a shaky ball game?

Answer: Because Cleveland was even shakier.

Here's why the Magic should have lost

The Magic were outrebounded by the Cavs.

Delonte West played terrific defense against Turkoglu and did a commendable job of carrying Cleveland's offense while LBJ was taking a blow.

Any defender who got too close to LBJ on his several thrusts to the rim was automatically tooted for a foul. Also, LeBron's performances in his many commercials have apparently helped him feign being the victim of a violent physical attack whenever he puts up a shot in the paint.

James shot 24 free throws, while registering nine assists and 41 points. Under ordinary circumstances, these would certainly be winning numbers.

Here's how the Magic came up with the win

The biggest reason for Orlando's victory bordered on the miraculous. Howard, a career 51.7 percent free-throw shooter in his postseason career, was 14-19 from the stripe — including 8-10 in the fourth quarter.

Mickael Pietrus came off the bench to hit several critical baskets, grab a key offensive rebound, make all seven of his foul shots and play gritty defense against LeBron. It was Pietrus who deserved the game ball.

Alston compensated for his repeated poor decision-making by dropping a clutch triple and coming away with three important steals.

2009 NBA playoffs

Sunday's game -- East finals

Magic 99, Cavaliers 89 (Magic 2-1)

Saturday's game -- West finals

Lakers 103, Nuggets 97 (Lakers 2-1)

FOXSports.com analysis

Playoff results, schedule
2009 NBA Playoff Central
Tomasson: Ariza steals another one
Smith: Cleveland fans savor "The Shot"
Hench: Kroenke should fight back

Video

Postgame: Nuggets-Lakers, Game 3

Photos

Western Conference finals, Game 3
Eastern Conference finals, Game 2

Marcin Gortat played exceptionally well in place of Howard.

Courtney Lee hit a significant trey plus several of his quick pull-up jumpers.

As uneven as their all-around play was, the Magic never stopped hustling.

Orlando also won because LBJ missed 15 of his 17 jumpers — including two air balls.

And because Mr. MVP also missed five free throws in the fourth quarter.

Also because Ilgauskas had no defensive presence whatsoever, especially when he was involved in high screen/rolls.

Plus, Mo Williams couldn't shoot straight (5-16) and was discredited with five turnovers.

Moreover, Anderson Varejao was held flopless.

Given Orlando's less-than-inspiring performance, it would only have required the visitors to bring their B-game for them to regain the home-court advantage in the series.

I'm sure Cavs aficionados will resume their howling complaints that James still lacks an adequate supporting cast. Hmmm. Wasn't it the case all season long that Williams and West were touted as perfect compliments to Mr. Everything's game?

Maybe the Williamses and the West that LBJ really needs are Gus, Buck and Jerry.

In any event, the Cavs have to either put up or shut up in Game 4.