Matthew Falkenbury, theKnicksBlog.com

With only eight games left before the All-Star break, tonight the Knicks take on the first of six teams during that stretch with losing records. The Orlando Magic come to the Garden for the first time this season after losing twice at home and blowing fourth quarter leads in each loss to the Knicks in the process.

The Knicks got a nice win against the Hawks on Sunday but based on some of the reaction afterwards, you would have thought they lost the game instead.

The Knicks defense against guards has been a problem and Jameer Nelson scored 29 points in the teams last game earlier this month. It will be interesting to see if the Knicks P&R defense is better tonight than it has been.

On the other hand, Carmelo Anthony has been a thorn in the Magic side this season, averaging 32.5 points per game against them. Plus, Aaron Afflalo, the Magic’s best defender is out with a calf injury. That is a recipe for trouble for Orlando

The facts are that the Knicks are home and the Magic are not a good team, going 2-17 since December 21st, so a win should be order. But you never know.

Five Questions About Tonight’s Game

1. Can the Knicks defense get back to where it was earlier this season?
2. How will Tyson Chandler deal with Davis and Vucevic?
3. Will Moe Harkless be able to step up in Afflalo’s absence?
4. Will not having Jason Kidd available hurt the Knicks?
5. How will J.R. Smith respond to being passed over again for the All-Star Game?