I would rather face the tough guys up front and do or die. That way if we do get past them, then good things are likely to happen. If we don't then management can't say "well this team got us to the 2nd round/WCF. They just need some time. The improvements will all be internal." and maybe they will do something to help us fight for that championship.
Thats what you thought when the Jazz were finished off quickly by the Lakers in 2009. what happened next? Nothing much. If it is not "internal improvement" it will be "injuries". The FO will find some excuse to sell the BS that this team is of championship caliber. This season they already have several excuses-3 new starters, 2 new players in starting 5 and Memo's delayed comeback. So you have to wait for another 2-3 years and be patient while we "develop".
How about KOC's recent escape line though? "We are just 3 games off of division leader". So reassuring.
Please enlighten us as to who didn't have to beat the best teams to win a championship.Why would anyone want us to miss the playoffs? For a #14 draft pick and future roster clogger/bust/pay roll? You always wanna get in there and then at least roll the dice. Going forward.. shouldn't Al get some legit post season experience? What about Hay-slice?
The whole notion that "To be the best, you must beat the best!" sounds like some cliche martial arts flick catch phrase. You look over the years, how many teams have won championships because of lucky breaks in the seeding? Do you think those Chips feel any less "deserving"? Hell no.
I can't see us beating any of those teams in a series.
Please enlighten us as to who didn't have to beat the best teams to win a championship.