Look out below.
THE SKINNY
The series is tied 1-1 heading into Orlando, and the Pacers look to ride the momentum into enemy territory and come out with a W in game 3, which would revert homecourt back to Indiana and put them in the lead. Coaches are making adjustments and neither team has felt that they have played up to their potential yet, which means when it happens, the series will ratchet up in intensity.
THE LINEUPS
Point Guard
Much better in game 2, and the only Pacer to shoot over 10% from deep, George Hill also did a much better job on defense in game 2.
Shooting Guard
Paul George also performed much better in game 2, collecting 17 points and 8 rebounds while only missing 3-point attempts as well as supplying some highlights. Richardson is still a killer who couldn't show up last game because he sprained his hand early.
Small Forward
Granger is still searching for his shot in this series, but showed up much better late. He needs to find ways to get to the line for free points and fouls on the Magic bigs without dribbling too much.
Power Forward
David West is supplying that veteran presence and is giving the Pacers flexibility at the 4 and the 5 when the Hibbert matchup isn't favoring them. Ryan Anderson was much quieter because of foul trouble, but was still effective in the minutes he played. David West looks like the key player for the Pacers in this matchup.
Center
Glen Davis continues to give Roy trouble, although Hibbert dominates the glass when he's in. Unfortunately, he's just not in position to setup his offense because of Davis' wide base.
THE BENCH
The bench has to focus and step up, as they are the weak link right now. The Pacers are tightening up their rotations, but the bench has the talent to not blow double-digit leads and needs to display that ability. Hansbrough drawing fouls will be key.
THE COACHES
Frank Vogel has made necessary adjustments and the Pacers looked much better because of them. His willingness to adapt the gameplan along with help from the rest of the coaching staff will be very important against Van Gundy's tactics.
THE INJURY REPORT
Pacers
None.
Magic
Dwight Howard: Disc - No.
THE HEAVY MATTERS
-Focus and effort. Especially important on the road.
-Attack their bigs. They are thin, and getting either Davis or Anderson in foul trouble will open things up.
-Make them work on defense. Playing at a faster tempo and sharing the ball makes heaving up shots more difficult.
THE TRADITION: Best of 7
