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Sixers Notes: Magic's Howard reflects on MVP and T's

76ers Notes Dwight Howard was in good spirits before the Orlando Magic met the 76ers Monday at the Wells Fargo Center. The 25-year-old five-time all-star center touched on a few subjects ranging from his propensity to draw technical fouls to his place in the MVP race.

76ers Notes

Dwight Howard was in good spirits before the Orlando Magic met the 76ers Monday at the Wells Fargo Center. The 25-year-old five-time all-star center touched on a few subjects ranging from his propensity to draw technical fouls to his place in the MVP race.

Howard has been suspended twice for going over the technical-foul limit. He was suspended March 7 against Portland after receiving his 16th technical and was banned from Sunday's 102-99 loss to Chicago after his 18th technical.

Howard tried his diplomatic best when addressing whether he has earned a reputation with NBA referees.

"I have to play," Howard said. "Whatever happens, happens. I can't allow it to affect my game. Refs are going to call the game how they feel."

Howard entered the night averaging 23.1 points, 14.1 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. He is a contender for MVP honors, but Chicago's Derrick Rose looks to be the favorite.

"I understand Derrick Rose's case," he said. "They have the best team; he is the favorite. I am just having a pretty good year and let my teammates talk about it, and I am not one to talk of self."

Howard said he is annoyed that his contract is brought up so much. He cannot opt out until after the 2011-12 season.

"The city has embraced me for who I am, and I never said I wanted to opt out," he said. "I love the city and want to be there and put Orlando on the map. I started something, so I don't want to leave."

No Iguodala

Andre Iguodala who has been battling right knee tendinitis, did not suit up last night. Evan Turner started in his place.

Since missing a March 19 game in Portland with the injury, Iguodala had played in 10 straight games, many with pain.

"I think [the rest] can help a little bit," Iguodala said after Monday's shootaround. "It's frustrating to even miss a regular-season game."

Coach Doug Collins said no decision had been made on whether Iguodala would play in Wednesday's regular-season finale against visiting Detroit.

With no more back-to-back games, Iguodala said he is hopeful that the rest will help in the postseason.

Century mark

Myra Hyland of Medford was a guest of the Sixers for Monday's game. She is a lifelong Sixers fan, and it has been a long life. Hyland will turn 100 on May 12. She received a warm ovation when she was introduced to the crowd.

- Marc Narducci