The NBA All-Star game festivities are over, and while most players are still enjoying their midseason vacations or in the process of returning home, coaches and front office personnel are gearing up for the home stretch of the season.
Every team in the NBA has between 21 games (Minnesota Timberwolves) and 27 games (Philadelphia 76ers) left on their schedule. The playoff picture has taken form, and every game truly matters in the standings from here on out.
In the Eastern Conference, nine teams are competing for eight spots. At 28-29, the Detroit Pistons currently sit in ninth place and outside the playoff picture.