Regardless of the results of the 76ers-Cavaliers game or the Pacers-Pistons game, the Indiana Pacers will now be #1 in all scenarios, and thus have advanced to the knockout stage.
They become the first team to ever do so. Lakers have the chance to be the second if they beat the Jazz.
I wasn’t familiar with the in-season tournament concept until I actually took some time to read up on it and look up how it works. I honestly think it’s a great idea. Having a European soccer background for my fandom, this in-season tournament and a league cup totally appeals to me. I’m pumped to see how it’ll be played out once it gets to the knockout stages.