--C Dwight Howard is not putting up the statistics of a year ago, and there is a pretty good reason. He isn't playing as much. Howard's points, rebounds and blocked shots all are noticeably lower this season. He also is averaging just 31 minutes a game, which is five minutes fewer than last season. He has found himself in foul trouble constantly, which has forced him to the sideline more often.

--F Rashard Lewis has played well in his three games this season after serving a 10-game suspension -- he has had a near-miss triple double and a double-double -- but his long-range shot has been poor. Lewis, one of the league's best 3-point shooters last season, has made only four of his 17 shots from 3-point range.

--G Jason Williams has started the last two games in place of the injured Jameer Nelson, and he hasn't tried to do too much. He has protected the ball well, getting 11 assists and three turnovers, making sure the ball gets to the scorers. The team has won both games with him as the starter.

MEDICAL WATCH:

--G Jameer Nelson (right knee) has surgery Wednesday and is expected to be out from four to six weeks.

--C Adonal Foyle (right knee) had surgery midway in October and he has begun running on the sideline. The Magic expected him to resume practicing with the team late next week.