PHOENIX – New Orleans players may not be entirely clear on the dizzying number of scenarios swirling around their playoff hopes, or their probabilities related to moving up from their current eighth-place status in the Western Conference. But point guard Rajon Rondo was well aware Thursday of one inarguable fact: If the Pelicans go at least 3-1 in their final four games, they are guaranteed a postseason berth.
“If we win three, there are no questions,” Rondo said of how New Orleans (44-34) can punch its ticket to the West playoffs. “We have to take care of what we can control, and can’t worry about other teams winning or losing.