I consider myself a big picture type. Imo, this was a throw away season from the start. This season should be about developing young players, clearing the cap, and acquiring assets. I don't condone tanking on a coaching/player level but from a management level I think it's the only thing that makes sense.
The way I see it, making the play-offs by default in the weak east is the best laid road to mediocrity. This is especially true if we add mediocre role players and contracts to help us get there. The idea would be to give players experience, but I bet not even half of this roster is part of our long term goals. Outside of Rondo, Sullinger and maybe Bradley I doubt anyone has a future with this team.
On the otherhand, the Lottery is chance at gaining a major asset. Best case scenario we get a top 3 we have a chance at what could be a tier 1 superstar, top ten it's a major trade chip at worst. With Rondo a proven champion, solid young players (Bradley, Sullinger), the Brooklyn picks, a top 5-10 in this draft and cap space/expiring contracts we would have the assets to build a contender basically over night in a trade. Basically 07 all over again, except this time we have way more assets.