The Magic were not expected to advance far in the NBA playoffs, but their postseason chances have taken an even bigger hit because of Dwight Howard’s back injury.
Howard was already expected to miss three games with back spasms, but he was diagnosed with a herniated disc Friday. Jarrod Rudolph, who first reported the news, says Howard was advised to rest for 10-15 days. Orlando Sentinel reporter Brian K. Schmitz says Howard is expected to be out 14-16 days, which puts his status for the postseason in jeopardy. The playoffs begin at the end of the month.
If you don’t think this is a big deal, think again. Amare Stoudemire has struggled with a back injury for several seasons and missed nearly 30 games in the 2008-2009 season because of it. Nate Jones also reminds us that David Robinson’s career was altered because of a back injury.
This really doesn’t seem to be Dwight Howard’s year in nearly every way possible. Without Howard, the Magic are 1-4 this season. They won’t be going anywhere in the postseason if he’s not healthy.
