111.   It was a game the MetroStars had to win to stay within striking distance of the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

112.   It was all thanks to an emotional, hard-working effort, the type that has been missing in action since the team clinched a playoff spot.

113.   It was a game the Nets, fighting to secure the eighth and final playoff spot, needed.

114.   It was so unexpected the league organizers had to schedule a special game because the team was now tied with another team for the final playoff spot.

115.   It will be difficult to hold off New Jersey and Washington for a playoff spot.

116.   It would be pointless resuming the regular season then, although teams like the Royals would be denied a run at a playoff spot.

117.   It was two years ago here that they clinched a playoff spot, in late September on a Wednesday night.

118.   It will take a complete turnaround to have even a remote chance for a wild-card playoff spot.

119.   Just how do they secure a playoff spot without a legitimate starting center?

120.   Last season, the Coyotes had to play five of their final eight games on the road while struggling to earn a playoff spot.