Every year as the dust begins to settle on the NBA season, teams are forced to wrestle with their place in the NBA hierarchy. For many teams, that becomes a fun development. Some, like this year’s Utah Jazz, Boston Celtics, or Milwaukee Bucks, realize a place in the league more lofty than in years past. Others, like the Houston Rockets or Washington Wizards, stave off the type of mediocrity which would force roster-reckoning moves.
For many teams, however, the process is not so rewarding. Consider cases like this year’s Minnesota Timberwolves, Philadelphia 76ers, and, of course, the Sacramento Kings.