Even though Dwight Howard wants to be traded to the Los Angeles Lakers or New Jersey Nets, Orlando Magic fans showed him the love on Saturday
Even though starry-eyed Dwight Howard appears to be headed to the New Jersey Nets, Los Angeles Lakers or some other team in a major media market, Magic fans cheered him every time he touched the ball during an open-to-the-public practice at the Amway Center on Saturday.
As Sentinel colleague Brian Schmitz wrote:
“There was much groveling. … When he (Dwight) was introduced to the Magic crowd on Saturday at this free, open house to the 2011-12 season, not a discouraging word was heard. No boos, not a one, just a roar from the dutiful faithful.
“So much for tough love.
“If this were Philadelphia, Howard might need a whip and a chair to keep some angry, betrayed season ticket-holders at bay. But this is Orlando, where we wear a “Kick Me” sign on our backs. …”
With all due respect to Schmitz, since when do fans displaying true class by showing their appreciation for a fabulous player who has given them seven years of entertaining basketball qualify as grovelers?
I don’t know about you, but to me Magic fans did themselves proud on Saturday. Why is there this media fascination with fans in Philly, who are somehow considered great and passionate fans because they boo a lot? I’d much rather have fans who are gracious and classy than fans who are nasty and negative.
Besides, what good does it do to boo Dwight now? As long as he’s a member of the Magic, fans should cheer him as loudly and proudly as possible.
Yes, it certainly appears that the greatest player in franchise history will be leaving shortly.
I say that’s even more reason Magic fans should savor the precious time they have left with the player they love most.
Thoughts?
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