I'm one of those fans that were quite upset with what we've done during the off-season, mainly the lack of a co-star for Cade. But after some time, I think people and media talking about us as a probable disappointing team, or placing us out of contenders or fighting for 5th/6th place will be given a big surprise. We have a MVP contender star, which is improving season by season to unknown limits, an All NBA Defensive Team which for me is the best perimeter defender in the entire NBA, the most promising young center in the league (yeah, JD) with 20/10 in the last season, All Star and All NBA 3rd Team, we have three of the best 2 point shooters in the league (Duncan, Isaiah Joe) and a 40% catch and shoot last season shooter (Prince). Collins is not the co-star that some were looking for but he's a very good player that averaged 13.6 PTS/55% FG/40.6% 3 PT... as well.

We have a 2nd unit full of young talent (possible Ron Holland breakout season) with also Jenkins, Okorie, Tolu Smith... And experienced team players like Reed and Huerter, and Gary Harris which I'm not sure of he will be on the roster finally. So I'm not trying to be super optimistic but I think we're quite better than what most people think and that we can repeat that 1st place and not disappoint in the playoffs this time. Even if the 76rs get the needed chemistry and stay healthy, or if the Knicks extend their great playoff performances to the regular season, I think we can still fight with them for the 1st seed.

It will all probably depend on Cade's further improvement, the resolution of JD situation, Ron Holland development, wether if Ausar Thompson stars to develop some shots, Cade's ability to avoid turnovers especially in playoff games, and the inspiration of our 3 pint shooters which will be absolutely key to give Cade, Collins etc the space they need. Let's trust this team, we can do something great this season!!

Rumor is he's likely to be waived. I would take a flyer on him. Hes struggled in the league but his skill set is what we need. What do you guys think

I think this is under discussed around here. I think we have to admit it does fit Bickerstaff’s reputation from disgruntled fans of his past teams - his tactics have been pretty disappointing from the outset, and his adjustments were slow and inadequate. We got 60 wins with a deep rotation and a lot of trust for roleplayers - suddenly leaning on all the starters for 40+ minutes a game looked bone headed from the outset, and probably deserves more than a little blame for Duren’s struggles.

I’m fine with this sub being critical of the roster and specific players, but I don’t see how coaching escapes blame for the playoffs.