The Nuggets and the Jazz were ranked seventh and eighth, respectively.
The Rockets, with one less win, were ninth and missed the playoffs.
"If Zack hadn't been injured, we wouldn't be in such a mess," Guy couldn't help but vent to Hansen in the Grizzlies' locker room after the final rankings were released.
The Grizzlies had strung together consecutive wins at the end of the season, not only because they were in form but also to make a push for the third spot; after all, facing the Mavericks in the first round was very different from facing the Clippers.
But now, even if they got past the Mavericks, they would have to face the Lakers in the second round.
Unfortunately, the Thunders also finished the season strong, and in the end, their efforts fell short.
"This isn't necessarily a bad thing," however, Hansen seemed quite philosophical.
They were bound to face the Lakers at some point this season. Playing against the Mavericks first could help get them into the right state.
