NBA Playoff Bracket 2012: Sleepers That Will Make a Deep Run

In a sport that usually does not have too many surprises, a few teams are ready to turn it on in the NBA playoffs.

The lockout-shortened season has caused a shift in power. The franchises used to being on top of the standings are finding themselves towards the middle of the pack.

Which teams can take a mediocre season and turn it into a deep tournament run?

Memphis Grizzlies 

A complete team that is peaking at the right time is very scary in the playoffs.

In the month of April the team has won 12 of its 15 games, including road wins in Miami and Oklahoma City.

Marc Gasol is one of the best centers remaining in the playoffs and can match up with anyone, while the rest of his team plays outstanding defense.

Memphis has a tough first-round battle with the Los Angeles Clippers, but should get past them and win a couple of series this postseason.

Orlando Magic

Yes, Dwight Howard will be out. However, removing a player with this much drama might be a good thing.

The rest of the Magic did not like seeing the constant media attention over the past couple of months, and now they have a chance to go out an play for a coach who is probably serving his last few games.

Orlando's first-round opponent, the Indiana Pacers, had a surprisingly good season, but lack playoff experience.

If the Magic can take an early lead in the series, the momentum and confidence might be all they need to finish off the Pacers.

Philadelphia 76ers

After a rough middle of the season, the 76ers ended strong to clinch a spot in the playoffs. However, they are not finished.

If Philadelphia finishes with the No. 8 seed, the Chicago Bulls would be the perfect matchup for this defensive-oriented team.

Derrick Rose is clearly not 100 percent since returning from his injury, and the series will turn into a low-scoring battle that a few good breaks could sway the games in either direction.

The Sixers lack a top scoring threat, but they have at least eight guys that can hurt you on a given night. 

With the kind of team defense this team plays, do not be surprised if they are still playing deep into May.