Magic notes: Orlando hopes to get Tracy McGrady back on the floor tonight. The superstar guard has missed the past three exhibition games because of spasms in his lower back. . . . McGrady is scheduled to appear on the cover of ESPN The Magazine in two weeks alongside of Dallas forward Dirk Nowitzki. The two posed for the photo Monday night in Dallas. . . .Orlando lost 105-97 Sunday night to the Los Angeles Clippers. The Magic starters played very little because condensation on the floor made conditions treacherous. . . . Troy Hudson, who had 25 points and seven assists Sunday, has led the Magic in scoring the past two games. . . .Rookie Steven Hunter had his finest game thus far, scoring 16 of his 19 points in the second quarter.

Mavericks notes: Dallas has one of the Western Conference's deepest teams and is hoping to make another deep push into the playoffs this season. The Mavericks defeated Utah in the playoffs last season before being ousted by San Antonio. . . . Dallas defeated Denver Saturday night 94-88. Michael Finley led four players in double figures with 23 points. . . .Veteran point guard Tim Hardaway was signed in the offseason to help keep Steve Nash healthy and fresh for the playoffs. Hardaway has played sparingly this preseason.

Next for the Magic: Thursday, vs. Atlanta (TD Waterhouse Centre).