Cavs’ streak hits 20

Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla.

Following Orlando’s morning walkthrough Sunday, center Dwight Howard said his biggest fear entering the Magic’s matchup with Cleveland was being the team that allowed the Cavaliers to end their long losing streak.

Turns out, he had little to worry about. And the main reason had everything to do with him.

Howard had 20 points and 20 rebounds in three quarters of work, Ryan Anderson added 23 points and 16 rebounds and the Magic handed the Cavaliers their franchise single-season record 20th straight loss and 30th in 31 games, 103-87 on Sunday night.

Howard had his 36th double-double of the season by halftime in a game that was never in doubt. J.J. Redick added 17 points, and Brandon Bass and Jason Richardson had 12 apiece.

Cleveland hasn’t won since Dec. 18. That’s one victory since its last meeting with LeBron James and Miami, who the Cavs face on the road tonight.

Cleveland coach Byron Scott attempted to inject some life in his club by starting guard Manny Harris in place of Daniel Gibson, but it had little effect. Harris led the Cavs with 20 points, but was the only starter in double figures. Samardo Samuels had 16 points and Ryan Hollins 11 points for the Cavs off the bench.

The Cavs never led and as has been their pattern throughout the losing streak, they fell behind early and trailed by as many as 22.

The Magic put the game away in the opening 24 minutes and led 56-43 at the half.