Since the deadline we have played astonishingly well. Surprising given we traded one of our most dynamic scorers and our wing defensive guru, not to mention locker-room leader. A level of chemistry has formed which has surpassed anyone's expectations and it is said chemistry that is wining us games. When taken into account how robbed we got in the Spurs game, it is doubly impressive. Agree or disagree the fact that I can claim zebra interference, with a straight face, at all in that game is impressive.

The biggest division at this point seems to be the argument between playoff contention and draft positioning. Short of a collapse on our part, even if we do not make the playoffs, we will come damn close. It seems a long shot as, Knicks game notwithstanding, memphis is playing extremely well this year and they are the team we need to catch. On the flip side of that coin, if we do not make the playoffs we go late lottery again, probably at 14, and given our selection last year that sounds like a damn good consolation prize.

My question is two-fold, what do yo think our chances are at netting an extended season and should that even be our goal at this point? Either way it goes, at the very least the season seems to be ending in such a way that it will not leave a bad taste in our mouths and a lot to look forward to in the future. 

It should be remembered that a lock-out is looming when contemplating the answers to these questions as i feel that is immensely relevant.