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Milicic returns to Detroit

Feb 21, 2007 - 4:04 PM Orlando (27-27) at Detroit (33-19) 7:30 pm EST

AUBURN HILLS, Michigan (Ticker) -- Darko Milicic returns to the Motor City on Wednesday when the Orlando Magic visit the Detroit Pistons.

The second overall pick in the 2003 draft, Milicic was a controversial selection by the Pistons, who chose the 7-0 forward ahead of superstars Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade in one of the deepest drafts in history.

However, during Detroit's championship run, Milicic was nothing more than a victory cigar - inserted into the game only when the outcome had already been decided. This season, his first full campaign with Orlando, Milicic is averaging 8.1 points and 5.3 rebounds through 53 games.

Milicic will need to pick up his play to help out his skidding squad. Orlando is just 2-13 on the road since December 6 and tied with Miami for the final two playoff spots.

On Tuesday, the Magic were defeated, 100-94 at New York. All-Star Dwight Howard collected 27 points and 14 rebounds for Orlando.

While the Magic are struggling, the Pistons seek their ninth win in 10 games.

Detroit held on for an 84-83 victory over Milwaukee on Tuesday. Chauncey Billups scored 19 points to lead four players in double figures. Rasheed Wallace collected 16 points and 11 rebounds and Antonio McDyess added 15 off the bench for the Pistons, who improved to 16-9 on the road.

Detroit has won four straight and nine of its last 11 against Orlando at home.