I think it is pretty clear that both Phili and NY would rather be the 8th seed and face Chicago in the 1st round than be the 7th seed and face Miami. IMO, Chicago has 1st round upset written all over them.
Phili actually plays Chicago pretty tough, but Miami has owned them. Not sure how much Phili "tries" tonight in Indiana. I could actually see Indi giving a better effort to secure the 3 seed than Phili.
I don't think NY lost on purpose to Cleveland yesterday, but at the same time I don't think they were that mad for losing that game.
IMO, 8th seed looks a whole lot better. Beat Chicago and then you face either Boston or Atlanta. If you are the 7th seed you have to go through Miami and Indiana.