31.   But who makes and misses the playoffs more than likely will come down to the kind of schedule the contenders have in September.

32.   Charlotte missed the playoffs by one game last year, and most people believe the Hornets will be one of the most improved teams in the league.

33.   Clubs could miss the playoffs and still make handsome profits.

34.   Do we believe he will leave next year if his team again misses the playoffs?

35.   Do Ranger fans expect failure after missing the playoffs for two consecutive springs?

36.   Double-A San Antonio missed the playoffs.

37.   Duncan missed the playoffs last year with a knee injury.

38.   Each could miss the playoffs.

39.   Each missed a playoff for second alternate by one stroke.

40.   Each of their losses came to a club projected to miss the playoffs.