There are two characteristics of championship teams that have been consistent throughout the years – a commitment to defense and the ability to maintain focus on the road.

The Orlando Magic displayed both in their 105-75 win against the Atlanta Hawks in Phillips Arena, giving them a 3-0 series lead. 

Orlando dominated from start to finish by shooting better and controlling the boards.  Defensive Player of the Year Dwight Howard paved the way with 21 points and 16 rebounds.  The Magic also got an efficient game from forward Rashard Lewis, who had 22 points on 8-13 FG – including four triples.  In total, the reigning Eastern Conference Champs shot 51% from the field and canned ten three-pointers.

Will Joe Johnson's postseason struggles cost him any money in free agency?

The Hawks were outscored in each quarter by the Magic.  Atlanta, who tied for the second-best home court record in the league, was not ready for a team with the Magic’s depth, skill and execution.  After a few consecutive playoff appearances, the Hawks have to be wondering what it will take to get to the next level (i.e., the Eastern Conference Finals).  Their best player, Joe Johnson, has looked nothing like the All-Star status that he has achieved over the years.  Johnson was only 3-15 tonight, bringing his series shooting down to 12-42 (29%).  With his free agency looming, there will be a lot of question marks surrounding his value to other teams.  Efforts like tonight will have many Hawks fans on edge this summer.

Orlando looks like a team that is a cut above everyone else at the moment.  Although some may regard the Bobcats and the Hawks as two of the easier opponents that a top-tier team can have in the first and second rounds, Orlando has been focused and have not let one game slip away from them.  They are performing as a title contending team by putting away teams that it should.  The Magic look to be peaking as a team at the right time of year.

T Lamont is the owner, administrator and author of all content for Ball or Nuthin\'. Feel free to contact T Lamont with a question or comment at ballornuthin@gmail.com.  All created Ball or Nuthin' content is the sole property of T Lamont. Read more from this author