Will Dwight Howard still be smiling at the end of the season?

What constitutes a good playoff run for the Orlando Magic?

One and done, assuming they beat the Atlanta Hawks in the first round?

A strong showing against the Chicago Bulls _ unless there is an apocalyptic upset by Indiana in the first round? Beating the Bulls?

Nothing short of an NBA title run?

Perception vs. reality may be a tough deal for Magic fans to accept.

No question they will be rooting hard for the home team, which has advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals the last two seasons. But there is a different vibe about this team, and not necessarily a good one.

Despite another 50-victory run during the regular-season, the Magic have regressed while their top division rivals have improved. Orlando won 59 games in the regular season a year ago. They stand at 51 victories now, with one last game left against Indiana Wednesday night.

Boston is plus five. Atlanta is plus nine. Miami is plus 10. Chicago is plus 19.

Based on the statistical evidence, the Magic are a strong team but no better than a fourth-seed in the East.

Could they make a run like the Celtics did last season, when they were seeded fourth? Sure, but a lot of variables have to fall into place. Cutting down on senseless turnovers, avoiding long stagnant runs on offense, and of course anger management issues with Dwight Howard are critical to the Magic sustaining a run playoff run. The technicals will reset fopr the playoffs, but still, Howard can’t allow his emotions to get the best of him.

The players say they are ready to roll and can flip a switch to take it to the next level during the playoffs.

I remain a bit skeptical about that until the ball starts bouncing the weekend.

What say you, Magic fans?

What constitutes a strong playoff run for the Orlando Magic?customer surveys