Crazy to say, but i would like this team to make the playoffs even if Zion didnt come back

I agree. As a fan I want to see wins. I want to feel good after every game. I want the players I have invested a lot of time and effort "getting to know" be successful.

Teams, player, coaches, are all gauged by positive production. Getting into the playoffs is a part of that barometer that will be used always.

Redick is known for having made playoffs on each year he has been a pro. Making the playoffs is a big deal.

I think this team might not even be 8th without Zion if everyone else is healthy. Might be 6th or 7th

I think that we are playing at the level of 6th or 7th in the West now, but even if we were healthy all season, Lonzo and NAW had to learn to quit the stupid step-back 3s, Ingram had to find his role as leader of the team, Jrue had to get over his crummy start to the season, etc.

We wouldn't be 6th.

This is not a crazy take. This team needs to feel some success. We need to build culture. Need to show free agents you can win here. Need to keep current players like BI and DF. Just missing the playoffs would likely result in a mediocre draft pick. We have enough draft capital in the next few years and three young rookies playing this year. (Not counting the old man rookie). It's geaux time!