— Damian Lillard: For all the non-stop losing that Lillard endured toward the end in Portland, it led to something even more tumultuous in Milwaukee, from an early-season coaching change to the reality that Giannis Antetokounmpo is not necessarily built to endure.

Now, with Antetokounmpo ailing, a quick Bucks demise could have Lillard again considering his previous wanderlust for South Florida.

No, Lillard is not in control of the situation, but he wasn’t last summer, and still got moved.

— Donovan Mitchell: Although he still has another year on his contract, as well as a player option for 2025-26 with the Cavaliers, another playoff misstep by the Cavaliers could have Mitchell playing the trade card, and the Cavaliers sweating losing such an elite talent for nothing in return (sort of like LeBron James Squared).

The Cavaliers slumped badly at the end of the season, before maneuvering their way to what they viewed as a favorable first-round matchup against the Magic. Now, that becomes a series that could well determine Mitchell’s future in the wine and gold.

— Joel Embiid: At a certain point, enough will be enough for Embiid, as his 76ers have cycled through coaches and continually fallen short in the playoffs.

His postseason of truth might be at hand, no longer to trust the Process, but rather create his own.

It worked out well for the Heat the last time a 76er forced his way out of Philly.

— Julius Randle: What if the Knicks come to the realization that they are better without Randle, that every shot he attempts is one fewer attempt for emerging franchise cornerstone Jalen Brunson?

In absentia this postseason, Randle could eventually find himself superfluous.

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