--G Mickael Pietrus, signed as a free agent this summer, made his first start for the Magic after coming from Golden State. He was asked before the game what the biggest difference was between playing for Golden State and playing for the Magic. "Defense," he responded.

--G Jameer Nelson, who is from Philadelphia, has been wearing his Phillies baseball cap to around town, causing some of his teammates to rib him about jumping on the bandwagon. Nelson bristles at the comments. "It's not the first time I've worn it. It's an old cap. It's just the first time they've seen me wear it," he said.

--G J.J. Redick got his long-awaited shot in the regular rotation, but he didn't do anything with it in the opener. He missed his only four shots and committed three personal fouls. He might not be in the rotation very long if he plays like this.

MEDICAL WATCH:

--F/C Tony Battie (fractured ring finger, left hand) missed the last five exhibition games, but he played in the opener Wednesday night with his finer taped.

--G Anthony Johnson (left eye abrasion) missed one late exhibition game, but he has recovered and played Wednesday night.

--G Mike Wilks (torn ACL) is out for the season.