2012 NBA Playoff Preview and Predictions: Indiana Pacers vs. Orlando Magic

WhatIfSports.com Predicts the 2012 NBA Playoffs

Pacers

Record: 42-24

Analysis: The Pacers snuck into the playoffs in 2011 despite a 37-45 record.

Although they fell to the Bulls in five games, the franchise's first trip to the postseason since 2006 was cause for celebration.

Heading into the new season, however, the bar was raised as new acquisitions David West and George Hill added experience to an incumbent roster of up-and-comers.

The team exceeded expectations, claiming the third-best record in the Eastern Conference. The Pacers are one of the hottest teams heading into the postseason, having won 12 of their last 15 games.

The credit for much of their success can be doled out to West and Hill, as well as Leandro Barbosa, who was acquired from the Raptors in a mid-season trade.

But the improved play of Roy Hibbert and Paul George has also been a welcome addition. Hibbert is averaging career highs in points, rebounds, blocks, steals and field goal percentage, while George has become a reliable option at shooting guard in only his second year in the league.

Small forward Danny Granger led the team in scoring (18.7 points per game) for the fifth consecutive season.

Magic

Record: 37-29

Analysis: It's apropos that Orlando is home to some of our nation's most recognized amusement parks and attractions, as the Magic season has been one giant roller coaster ride.

This turbulent trip can be blamed on the volatile nature and nonsense of Dwight Howard.

Charged with the choice to become a free agent or return for one more campaign in O-Town, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year made a relatively simple decision serve as a storm cloud that nearly submarined an entire season.

Seemingly flip-flopping daily, Howard's selection not only affected his teammates, but also shined an unnecessary negative light on coach Stan Van Gundy, who Howard allegedly held beef with.

Magic fans, as well as hoop enthusiasts, prayed for this intolerable saga to end. Unfortunately for Orlando, the distraction was temporarily put to rest thanks to season-ending back surgery for Howard, meaning the Magic will be star-less heading into the postseason.

Not all hope is lost, however, as the Magic look to pull a rabbit out of their hat as underdogs.

Ryan Anderson had a career year with 16.1 points, 7.7 boards and an 87.7 free-throw percentage. J.J. Redick chipped in as well, with a career-best 11.6 points.

Jason Richardson, Hedo Turkoglu, Jameer Nelson and Glen Davis all have playoff experience, giving Orlando a fighting chance.

Winning Percentage of 1001 Simulations: Pacers 84.4 percent - Magic 15.6 percent