do we really have to choose? why not blame both?

I guess deep down I would rather believe in the players. I harbour doubts in Flip. When it comes to the playoffs I still miss LB.

The players are not infallible. Somehow in the last couple of years we have reified (now there's a word the professor will like) the hard work, selflessness and chemistry of a bunch of mutts into a revised portrait of incredibly talented players. But only Sheed is a rare talent in the NBA, a league where everybody has ability.

Knowing they could get blown out the minute they stopped working was what made this team good. Accepting that each individual was flawed became our strength. Now we act as if these guys can't lose except through coaching screwups or boredom. But they can -- oh yes they can.

I forget who it was a few months ago who said this team reminded them of the Survivor song, "Eye of the Tiger." But whoever it was, thanks a lot buddy! These lyrics have stayed with me:

So many times it happens too fast
You trade your passion for glory
Don't lose your grip on the dreams of the past
You must fight just to keep them alive

It was this dummy.

http://www.pistonsforum.com/13272-po...ight=eye+tiger