How is Grant Hills ankle?
Grant Hill has missed nearly all of the past two seasons with ankle problems, fading from the spotlight faster than you can say “Ralph Macchio.” He swears the ankle is fine now, but he said the same thing at the start of last year and his season was over by Christmas. A healthy recovery is important for the Magic because Hill can be a devastating player. He was the game’s best small forward while a Detroit Piston — able to score on the drive or in transition, an outstanding passer and ballhandler and a major force on the glass. It isn’t realistic to expect Hill to come back and immediately pump in 25 a night, but he at least needs to be on the court. A healthy Hill, giving 17 points or so and piling up the rebounds and assists, makes the Magic a strong contender in the East. If he can’t go, they’ll struggle to make the playoffs once again.
