This is the point in the season where everyone is supposed to be ramping up for the playoffs. The top seeds are usually locked in, and the teams in the middle of the conference are vying for homecourt advantage in the first round while one or two teams on the outside of the bubble are trying to burst through. That’s the usual story during this time of year in the NBA.

The narrative for this year’s stretch run is about something else entirely.

Preparing for the post-season is all about psychology, and avoiding stress and distraction is a massive part of that. Coaches need their players to launch at full throttle in order to get to the highest stratosphere possible. Physical preparation is part of that, and avoiding injuries is a must, but even regular people like you and me understand the value of entering a serious challenge with a rested, clear mindset. It can be the difference between success and failure. It’s why you don’t go out boozing the night before an exam in college (or why you’re not supposed to anyways).

The two best teams in each conference hold almost miraculous records. Golden State has been involved in The Chase for 73 since October, while Cleveland feels like a Lamborghini being held together by duct tape and crazy glue. Both have endured mountains of mental strain and distraction, and all of those outside factors detract from the ultimate goal of any NBA team’s season.