A: That far I'm not willing to go, because we still don't know the definitive impact it will have in the Eastern Conference playoff race, although we certainly could wind up looking back in terms somewhat close to that if it means opening up as a No. 5 seed and then, if surviving as a road team, having to move on against the Cavaliers. But it's almost as if the Heat not only didn't respect the opponent, but didn't respect the stakes. Yes, you can meander against competition the level of the Lakers and usually come out ahead, but this was a team with a point guard who earlier in the day still had a fever (Goran Dragic) and a reserve wing who went into the day still unsure about his knee (Justise Winslow). Save for Luol Deng, it's as if no one could be bothered with providing a 48-minute effort. Yes, Dwyane Wade and Hassan Whiteside came on late, but by then the Lakers had built their confidence. This team, especially without Chris Bosh, at its core is an ensemble team. What that means is all the pieces have to be on their game. Too often, that wasn't the case Wednesday. And they paid the price. In two weeks, we'll find out how much of a price.