By a thread

Yes, the Pacers are hanging.  I know, you're sick of hearing it from me.  I can't help it.  Despite Marquis'knee and the other injuries, I see a chance, however slim, that the Pacers close the season with a 6-2 burst.  If so, it would force the Magic to go 4-3 to force a tie.  It's possible.  

Of course, if you'd prefer the lottery, the Pacers lurk a mere game "behind" the Knicks and Wolves, and just two behind Philly, Portland, and Seattle in the race for one of the 10 worst records.  I guess the lottery remains possible too.  

I fear the worst:  no playoffs AND no pick.

Last night's Celts-Bucks clash made me think of this riddle Any suspicions of "tanking" would have been cured if Doc and Krystowiak had to switch teams for the night. Each would have had no choice but to coach for the win.