Monday, Dec. 31 – Orlando Magic vs. Miami Heat
5 p.m.
Amway Center
400 W. Church St.
407-440-7000
orlandomagic.com
$70-$2,350
It’s always fun when regional rivals the Orlando Magic meet up with the Miami Heat, but this New Year’s Eve matchup is extra intriguing, considering the adorably competitive drive of the “Dwight who?” Magic lineup this season. New coach Jacque Vaughn has his boys surprisingly in line, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the year will start with a Magic win. It would take a Herculean effort from Big Baby and his co-point-leader Afflalo to pull this one off, and it goes without saying that Redick’s perfectly manicured hair will likely be ruffled by the game’s end. The Magic will need to do their homework to defend against the current NBA champs, including Eastern Conference three-point leader Rashard Lewis (remember him?), or else the basket-driving duo of LeBron James and Dwyane Wade could wind up almost literally painting the arena red. Good thing everyone loves to cheer the underdog! – Ashley Belanger
