Magic win Game 3 108-104, cut Lakers’ lead to 2-1 in NBA finals

Magic win Game 3, cut Lakers’ lead to 2-1

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Magic have won Game 3 of the NBA finals, shooting a record 63 percent in a 108-104 victory over Los Angeles to cut the Lakers’ lead to 2-1.

Dwight Howard had 21 points and 14 rebounds on Tuesday for the Magic, who earned the first finals victory in franchise history. Rashard Lewis scored 21 points, Rafer Alston added 20, and Hedo Turkoglu and reserve Mickael Pietrus each had 18.

Kobe Bryant scored 31 points for the Lakers, but he shot poorly after a strong start and still needs two more wins for his first title without Shaquille O’Neal.

Game 4 is Thursday night and the Magic will also host Game 5.

The Magic made 40 of 64 shots to set the finals record.