"We've shown we can bounce back," guard Rafer Alston said. "It's crucial that we put Game 3 behind us and prepare for what's to come."

The Magic, who looked overwhelmed in Game 1 in Los Angeles before dropping Game 2 in overtime, were clicking again during their 108-104 win in Game 3. It was Orlando's first finals win in franchise history and one the Magic absolutely had to have.

Orlando is ready for Kobe Bryant to bring everything he's got.

Bryant now understands how dangerous the Orlando Magic can be at home when they're dialed in and raining down jumpers and 3-pointers from every angle. He knows what can happen when Dwight Howard recognizes the double team and kicks the ball out to the Magic's dead-eyed sharpshooters.

Bryant has seen the Magic, who shot an NBA finals-record 62 percent from the field — 75 percent in the first half — in their Game 3 win, turn into a diabolical creature.

Behold the Beast of the East.

"This team can stay hot for weeks. They can get hot and stay hot," Bryant said Wednesday. "When that happens, you're dealing with a monster."

The NBA's pre-eminent closer, Bryant didn't get the job done in Game 3.

Normally, he owns the fourth quarter.

But with the Lakers eyeing a chance to open a 3-0 series lead and with a fourth title that he has obsessed about almost within his reach, Bryant slipped up.

With Tigers Woods, the sporting world's greatest finisher, sitting courtside, Bryant faltered.

The Magic saw it, too. They don't expect to see it again.

"We have to understand," Alston said. "He's not one to let it happen on back-to-back occasions."

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