Rich Devos, the Magic's 85-year-old owner, told reporters before Wednesday night's game that he hoped the team could persuade Dwight Howard to stay in Orlando. Devos, who is wheelchair bound, made a surprise visit to the Magic locker room. Howard did not move to greet him.

"We like to think we're making headway," Devos said of talks with Howard and his representatives. "But I don't know. He probably won't know until the end and I won't either."

When asked if he could put a percentage chance on Howard staying with the team long-term, Devos said he wouldn't put a number on it. "I don't gamble on that, I just plan on him staying," the owner said.

• Orlando Magic owner on Dwight Howard -- 'I don't want to trade him' - Tom Haberstroh - ESPN
  
• DeVos says his family wants to keep the team 'forever' - Josh Robbins - Orlando Sentinel
• Amway founder has toughest sell in keeping Howard in Orlando - David Whitley - AOL FanHouse