Preview: The Magic, presumably fleeced in that three-way trade that sent Dwight Howard to Los Angeles, started the season 2-0 with home victories over Denver and Phoenix before Tuesday night's 99-93 loss at Chicago. The Magic has beaten the Wolves seven consecutive times and nine of the past 11, including six of seven at Target Center. But that, of course, was with Howard on its roster.

Players to watch: With Howard gone, the Magic is retooling with power forward Glen Davis, who averaged 25.5 points and nine rebounds in the first two games. The only other Orlando players who reached 29 points and 12 rebounds in a season opener like he did are Shaquille O'Neal in 1993 and Tracy McGrady in 2000. The Magic is starting two of the six players it received in the Howard trade: Center Nikola Vucevic, another big man from Montenegro, and shooting guard Arron Afflalo.

Injuries: Wolves F Kevin Love (broken hand) and G Ricky Rubio (knee surgery) remain out. Magic G Jameer Nelson (strained hamstring, groin) did not play Tuesday at Chicago and is doubtful. Forwards Al Harrington (knee) and Hedo Turkoglu (broken hand) are out.

JERRY ZGODA