The Magic got pounded 90-80 last week by the Boston Celtics, the defending NBA champs and other top team in the East.

"We have to come ready to play, to meet the challenge," said point guard Jameer Nelson. "We have to keep getting better."

The Celtics beat the Magic by using single coverage against Dwight Howard, making sure they didn't lose track of the outside shooters.

The Magic's biggest problem will be trying to slow down LeBron James. The Magic will start with Hedo Turkoglu against James, but they are expected to move Mickael Pietrus into the role before long.

Magic coach Stan Van Gundy has not been pleased with his team's defense lately, not after back-to-back losses to Boston and Miami, and then a lopsided victory over the Indiana Pacers.

MAGIC 135, PACERS 111: There was nothing wrong with the Magic offense that a bad defensive team like the Pacers couldn't cure. After scoring just 80 and 97 points in their previous two games -- both losses -- the Magic unloaded on the Pacers, with seven players reaching double figures. The Magic hit 15 of 33 shots from 3-point range. They also held a 50-29 rebounding advantage.

The Magic were hoping to use this one as a tuneup for Thursday night's nationally televised game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.