It's no secret.  The NBA is in for a long, nasty lockout that will likely dampen the revived popularity of the league.  I, for one, am ready to weather the storm.  As much as I would love to see the 2011-2012 season played in its entirety, I know small market teams like the Pacers need the current financial system to be altered to ensure our franchise's long-term viability.  I'm not a betting man, but I wouldn't be surprised if the 2011-2012 season was missed altogether.

Also, what could a lockout mean for Frank Vogel?  I'd personally like to have our head coach in place before the beginning of the lockout, just so the players know what to expect in the future.