"The Orlando Magic will play perhaps their most important game of the season without their starting shooting guard.

As expected, NBA officials announced on Saturday that Jason Richardson and Atlanta Hawks backup center Zaza Pachulia have been suspended for one game apiece without pay because of their altercation in the Magic's 88-84 Game 3 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night.

They will serve their suspensions Sunday night when the Magic face the Hawks in Game 4 at Philips Arena. The Magic trail the best-of-seven series two games to one.

With Richardson absent, the Magic's already thin bench will be tested further.

J.J. Redick, still not at his best after missing the final 17 regular-season games because of a lower abdominal strain, could start in Richardson's place. But he isn't well-suited to defend against the Hawks' taller starting shooting guard, Joe Johnson.

Gilbert Arenas, whom coach Stan Van Gundy didn't play in Game 3 primarily because he was ineffective in Game 2, likely will have to play in Game 4. He could start in Richardson's place.

Quentin Richardson, a natural small forward, certainly will play more minutes.

It doesn't help the Magic's depth that backup point Chris Duhon didn't even suit up for Game 3 because of a sprained left ankle."