With a showdown against the Boston Celtics, the Magic had an opportunity to send a message to all of their critics who questioned their sustainability and warned of their impending regression.
But the Magic were unable to make that statement, falling to the Celtics 104-88, and in no way converted any believers of those who questioned the legitimacy of their 6-2 start to the season.
The once-surging Magic offense, facing the top defense in the league, shot just 36.3 percent from the field and hit just 6 of 29 three-point attempts (20.7 percent).
Still, the Magic lingered through three quarters.