THE SKINNY
Taking down the defending champs was another great addition to the resume of this strong squad. Now the return to Conseco to face the dysfunctional Magic will be a challenging one. Last time in this situation the Magic pounced early and often, resulting in the only loss in Conseco this season.
THE LINEUPS
Point Guard
Although the Magic are lacking options at the point guard spot, the offense it can generate is still impressive. Darren Collison needs to find a way to be more effective on close-outs and contesting. Chris Duhon is a veteran who is well-rounded, and he can shoot from deep. However, if Collison can continue to dictate tempo the way he has lately, he can put a lot of pressure on the Magic.
Shooting Guard
Paul George got it going against the Mavs, putting up incredibly impressive numbers without having the ball that much on offense. He is quickly garnering attention for his play on both ends of the floor. He must resist the urge to gamble against a Magic team that will spread it out and make you pay for not recovering.
Small Forward
Granger took a step back by posting a shoddy percentage against the tough defense from Shawn Marion, but against Turkoglu, he needs to press the advantage. The interior game has been working lately for Granger, but leaving Turkoglu behind off the ball is where Granger really can get his points.
Power Forward
As a stretch 4, Ryan Anderson can take both West and Hansbrough far out of their comfort zones. What they need to do on the other end is take Anderson out of his comfort zone. Taking it strong to the hoop despite Dwight Howard will be something the Pacers will try to do. West will need to utilize his crafty veteran expertise while closing out on a very good shooting big.
Center
Roy Hibbert is back to double-digit rebounding, but he needs to figure out a way to limit Howard's effectiveness on the boards. Dwight Howard is playing extremely well despite the team he's been given, and he will probably get his.
THE BENCH
Because of the red-hot George, Lance didn't get much burn against Dallas, but will need to step up for the Pacers this game when called upon. Tyler will also need to step up. His presence hasn't been felt in a while, and for the bench to be effective, particularly in the absence of George Hill, he will need to step up. On the other end, the Pacers need to watch out for the activity of JJ Redick, who can light it up.
THE COACHES
Frank Vogel has enjoyed wins at home against everyone except the Magic. The situation is very similar to last time, for the Pacers, coming back home after a long flight and a shortened day. Stan Van Gundy's squad took one at home against the Cavaliers. Both teams will be looking to extend a streak.
THE INJURY REPORT
Pacers
Jeff Foster: Back - No.
George Hill: Ankle - No.
Magic
Glen Davis: Behavior - No.
Jameer Nelson: Brain - No.
THE HEAVY MATTERS
-Close out on the perimeter. Collapsing too hard will be punished.
-Force the wings to defend. George, Granger, and Stephenson all need to develop a little Dahntay Jones in their games tonight.
THE TRADITION
What will happen next?!?!?!