Just before the playoffs began, NBC Sports handicapped the prospects for each of the 14 teams that didn't make the playoffs. The Nets, according to Ira Winderman, have some nice pieces in Devin Harris, Brook Lopez and Vince Carter, but need what he called the "hobbyist" owner whose deep pockets will permit them to become "something special...Instead, it's the never-mind Nets."
- Of playoff wannabes, Thunder set to succeed - Ira Winderman - NBC Sports