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Magic turn to Howard to snap two-game slide vs. Hornets

Jan 16, 2007 - 3:48 PM Orlando (22-16) at New Orleans (14-22) 8:00 pm EST

OKLAHOMA CITY (Ticker) -- If Dwight Howard can continue to grab rebounds at his current pace, he has a chance to set a league record.

Howard hopes to help the Orlando Magic stop their two-game skid Tuesday when they conclude a four-game road trip against the New Orleans Hornets.

Tied with Minnesota's Kevin Garnett for the top spot in rebound average (12.6), the 21-year-old Howard can become the youngest player to win the rebounding title, surpassing the mark set by Hall of Famer Dolph Schayes of the Syracuse Nationals in 1950-1951.

However, Howard was limited to just five rebounds for Orlando in Saturday's 107-101 loss to the Phoenix Suns. Jameer Nelson scored 28 points to lead six Magic players in double figures.

After a recent five-game losing streak, the Hornets have won their last two and received an extra day of rest because last Saturday's contest against the Milwaukee Bucks was postponed because of travel problems caused by inclement weather.

The Hornets used just seven players and shot 54 percent (42-of-77) from the floor in Friday's 104-97 triumph over the Washington Wizards. Desmond Mason scored 22 points and Rasual Butler added 20 for the Hornets.

Orlando is looking for its second victory in as many meetings over the Hornets this season after an 86-83 win on December 20. Grant Hill scored 21 points for the Magic, while Chris Paul led the Hornets with 19 and 10 assists.